despondency

Despondency is a state characterized by deep discouragement and a sense of hopelessness, often accompanied by low mood and diminished motivation. The term derives from Latin despondere, meaning to lose heart. In everyday use, despondency describes a transient emotional response to disappointment or stress, but it can also be part of broader mental health problems.

Distinguish from clinical depression: despondency is not itself a mental disorder, but a persistent despondent mood can occur in depressive disorders, grief, burnout, or anxiety disorders. It may reflect adaptive responses to unmet goals as well as pathological states.

Signs and manifestations include persistent sadness, reduced interest or pleasure, fatigue or low energy, pessimistic or self-critical thoughts, social withdrawal, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, and diminished ability to function in daily life. The experience can vary in intensity and duration from person to person.

Causes and risk factors encompass acute or chronic stress, bereavement, major life changes, chronic illness, substance use, traumatic experiences, lack of social support, and preexisting vulnerability to mood disorders. Despondency can be a normal reaction to hardship or a component of a clinical condition.

Management and prognosis focus on restoring functioning and well-being. Self-help approaches include maintaining routine, staying socially connected, engaging in physical activity, ensuring adequate sleep, and practicing stress management. Professional care may involve psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, counseling, and, when appropriate, medication. If despondency persists for weeks, markedly impairs functioning, or is accompanied by thoughts of self-harm, seeking professional evaluation is advised.