[22F] Experiencing sadness and difficulty focusing on studies

What might be happening

Based on your information, you might be experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety. These conditions can be triggered by stressful life events, such as a break-up. Symptoms can include persistent sadness, difficulty concentrating, and loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.

• Depression: This is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.

  • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy (talk therapy), medications, or a combination of both. Lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity and a healthy diet, can also help manage symptoms.

• Anxiety: This is a normal and often healthy emotion. However, when a person regularly feels disproportionate levels of anxiety, it might become a medical disorder. Anxiety disorders lead to excessive nervousness, fear, apprehension, and worry.

  • Treatment for anxiety disorders can involve psychotherapy, medications, or both. Lifestyle changes and stress management techniques can also help reduce symptoms.

Please remember that only a healthcare professional can diagnose these conditions.

What you can do

1. Reach out to a mental health professional: They can provide you with the necessary tools to manage your feelings and thoughts during this difficult time. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist, or a licensed counselor.

2. Practice self-care: This includes eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, ensuring you get enough sleep, and taking time each day to relax and do things that you enjoy.

3. Stay connected: Reach out to supportive friends and family. Let them know what you're going through so they can provide support.

4. Limit alcohol and avoid drugs: These can increase feelings of depression and anxiety and make it harder for you to cope with your feelings.

What you should look out for

If your feelings of sadness continue, worsen, or you start to have thoughts of harming yourself, it's important to reach out to a healthcare professional immediately. You're not alone, and there are people who want to help.