Is Your Sleeplessness and Crying a Sign of Depression?

Constantly feeling like crying and experiencing insomnia may be symptoms of depression?

Due to staff changes, one person is handling two different jobs, and the supervisor has also changed.
This often leads to unpleasant situations regarding the necessary information or division of responsibilities.
My new business has just started, but I also have to manage the previous business, resulting in both tasks not being done well.
I frequently cannot submit my work on time.
My new supervisor and a certain colleague have an unfriendly attitude towards me.
On the surface, I tell myself that this is just work, but it seems that I still feel pressure subconsciously, which has led to insomnia.
I can't sleep at night, wake up very early in the morning, and can't fall back asleep.
No matter where I am, I feel like crying; I cry while working and even while riding my bike.
I feel a deep sense of hopelessness.
I have lost interest in things I used to enjoy, including food.
I wonder if I am incompetent; otherwise, why can't I do anything well? I go to work early every day and work late into the night, yet I still can't finish my tasks.
This situation has been going on for about a month.
I don't know if this is depression, but I feel like life is unbearable and it is very painful.

Hua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/24

Dr. Wang Zhenbang reply Psychiatry

Hello, I believe that the various pressures you are experiencing have significantly impacted you, and it may have reached the level of depression.
If you are unsure how to cope, you can visit a nearby psychiatric or psychosomatic hospital or clinic to seek assistance from a professional physician.
I am confident that this will lead to improvement.
Wishing you health and peace, Dr.
Wang Zhengbang.

Reply Date: 2016/08/24

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of distress, and your symptoms could indeed be indicative of depression. The combination of sleeplessness, persistent crying, feelings of hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed are classic signs of depression. When work-related stressors, such as changes in management, increased responsibilities, and interpersonal conflicts, pile up, they can lead to emotional exhaustion and mental health issues.

Depression is a serious mental health condition that can manifest in various ways, including emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms. The emotional symptoms often include persistent sadness, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and a loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable. Cognitive symptoms may involve difficulty concentrating, indecisiveness, and negative thought patterns, such as believing you are incapable or inadequate. Physical symptoms can include changes in sleep patterns, appetite changes, fatigue, and even unexplained aches and pains.

Your experience of crying while working, feeling overwhelmed by your responsibilities, and the inability to find joy in activities you once loved are all concerning signs. The fact that you are also experiencing sleep disturbances—such as difficulty falling asleep, waking up early, and not being able to return to sleep—can further exacerbate feelings of fatigue and hopelessness. Sleep is crucial for emotional regulation, and when it is disrupted, it can lead to a vicious cycle of worsening mental health.

It is important to recognize that these feelings are not a reflection of your worth or abilities. Many people face overwhelming stress at work, and it can be challenging to manage these pressures without support. It’s crucial to address these feelings before they escalate further. Seeking help from a mental health professional can provide you with the support and strategies you need to cope with your current situation. Therapy can help you process your feelings, develop coping mechanisms, and improve your overall mental health.

Additionally, consider reaching out to trusted friends or family members to share your experiences. Sometimes, just talking about what you’re going through can provide relief and help you feel less isolated. If you feel comfortable, discussing your situation with a supervisor or HR representative at work may also be beneficial. They might be able to provide accommodations or support to help alleviate some of the pressures you are facing.

In summary, your symptoms of sleeplessness, crying, feelings of hopelessness, and lack of interest in activities are significant and warrant attention. It is essential to seek professional help to assess your mental health and explore treatment options, which may include therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you navigate through these challenging times. Taking the first step to seek help can lead to a path of healing and recovery.

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