Are You Just Tired or Actually Depressed?
How to Recognize the Signs and What to Do Next
I was asked the other day how someone can tell if they are depressed or maybe are they just tired? Tired of the rat race? Tired of the summer heat? Or, just tired of life? Great question. As someone who once battled major depression that included a suicide attempt, it’s important to know the signs.
After all, in today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to brush off low energy, lack of motivation, or emotional numbness as just stress or exhaustion. But if these feelings linger, you may be dealing with more than just a bad week—you might be experiencing depression.
Depression isn’t just about feeling sad. It can show up as irritability, trouble sleeping (or sleeping too much), changes in appetite, low self-worth, withdrawal from things you used to enjoy, or feeling like life has lost its color. You might feel like you’re going through the motions or constantly overwhelmed by even the smallest tasks.
If this sounds familiar, the first step is acknowledging it. Depression thrives in silence and shame, but healing begins when you recognize the signs and reach out for support.
What can you do?
1. Talk to someone you trust—a friend, a coach, a therapist, or a support group. You don’t have to go through it alone.
2. See your doctor. Sometimes, depression has biological causes and may require treatment such as therapy, medication, or both.
3. Take small steps toward self-care. Move your body, nourish yourself with healthy food, get outside, and rest when you need to. Progress counts, no matter how small.
4. Challenge negative thoughts by journaling or working with a professional to reframe what you believe about yourself.
Most importantly, don’t wait for things to get worse before taking action. You are worthy of support, and healing is possible. Depression doesn’t define you—it’s just a chapter, not your whole story.
If you’re unsure whether what you’re feeling is depression, take it seriously enough to ask. Asking is a bold first step toward living well again.
For more information on depression or if you, or anyone you know, may be suffering from depression, reach out to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Their number is 800-950-6264 or text NAMI to 62640. In a crisis, call or text them at 988. It’s time to end the stigma of depression.
Until next time,
Coach Deborah Griffiths
Website: www.brokentoboldness.com
Email: deborah@brokentoboldness.com
P.S.: Whether you're looking for tools to support your healing journey and personal growth resources. Explore guides, books, reflections, and practical content designed to help you grow in confidence, clarity, and courage as you move from brokenness to boldness. You can access our resources on the links below:
Handling Life Transitions? Alignment Workbook
Start your journey to Self-Discovery and Growth with The Bold and Boldness Journal
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