Struggling with a heavy, low mood while simultaneously feeling a constant sense of worry or “racing” thoughts? You are not alone. Research indicates that nearly 41% of people with a major depressive disorder also experience an anxiety disorder.
At IPC KL, we specialise in integrated therapy for depression and anxiety. We understand that these two conditions often feed into each other—anxiety can lead to depressive burnout, and chronic depression can create anxiety about the future. Our goal is to help you break this cycle and regain control of your life.
Understanding Depression Symptoms in Adults
Clinical depression is more than just “feeling sad.” It is a cluster of symptoms that persist for at least two weeks and interfere with your ability to function at work or home.
1. Emotional & Psychological Signs
- Persistent Low Mood: Feeling empty, numb, or “gray” most of the day.
- Anhedonia: Losing interest in hobbies, social life, or intimacy.
- Feelings of Worthlessness: Intense guilt or self-criticism over small mistakes.
- Hopelessness: Feeling as though things will never improve.
2. Physical (Somatic) Symptoms
In Malaysia, many adults experience depression through physical pain first:
- Chronic Fatigue: Feeling physically “heavy” or drained even after a full night’s sleep.
- Sleep Issues: Insomnia (difficulty sleeping) or Hypersomnia (oversleeping).
- Appetite Changes: Weight loss or “stress eating” to cope with emotions.
- Unexplained Aches: Back pain or headaches that don’t respond to medicine.
3. Cognitive & Behavioral Impact
- Executive Dysfunction: Difficulty focusing, making decisions, or finishing tasks.
- Social Withdrawal: Avoiding calls, “ghosting” friends, and isolating yourself.
- Irritability: A “short fuse” or feeling constantly agitated.
Comparison: Depression vs. Burnout
For many professionals in Kuala Lumpur, it can be hard to distinguish between extreme work stress and clinical depression. This chart helps clarify the difference:
| Feature | Burnout | Depression |
| Primary Cause | Specific to work or a high-stress role. | Can occur without a specific external trigger. |
| Scope | Improves when away from work (e.g., on holiday). | Affects all areas of life (hobbies, family, self). |
| Sense of Self | Feel capable but exhausted or cynical. | Deep feelings of worthlessness or self-hatred. |
| Physical State | High exhaustion, but “vibrant” during breaks. | Persistent lethargy that rest doesn’t fix. |
| Outlook | Focuses on “getting through the week.” | Global feeling of hopelessness about the future. |
Depression Symptoms by Life Stage
| Life Stage | Common Presentation |
| Young Adults (18-30) | High irritability, oversleeping, and intense sensitivity to social rejection. |
| Working Adults (31-55) | High work stress, chronic insomnia, and loss of libido/intimacy. |
| Older Adults (55+) | Often presents as “memory loss” or physical pain rather than sadness. |
Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate Help
If you recognise these signs, we recommend a professional clinical assessment:
- Suicidal Ideation: Recurrent thoughts of death or self-harm.
- Risk-Taking: Increased use of alcohol or substances to “mask” the pain.
- Inability to Function: When “mental fog” makes basic hygiene or work impossible.
Our Approach to Depression & Anxiety Therapy
Our certified psychologists in KL use evidence-based pathways to help you recover:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): To break the “thought loops” that fuel anxiety and low mood.
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction: Practical tools to stay grounded during anxiety spikes.
- DASS-21 Assessment: A clinical tool we use to track your progress across Depression, Anxiety, and Stress scales.
Contact IPC KL for Professional Help
Ready to move toward healing? Contact our professional counselors today for a confidential consultation.
- Call/WhatsApp: 012-3756038
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: 9 Wisma Laxton, Taman Desa, Kuala Lumpur.
References
- Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG), MANAGEMENT OF MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition.