by Teresa Brouwer

Created on: August 26, 2008

Whenever we go through physical or mental distress, usually it's a symptom of something. There's a reason why we feel the way we do. Boredom isn't the cause of depression, but it's a symptom of depression.

However, just because you're bored that doesn't mean you're depressed. When people are bored, we ask why. What makes them bored? How can we get them to be active? If nothing seems to interest a person, one would have to consider the possibility of depression.

Boredom vs. depression has been debated for some time now. Being bored at work and watching the time go by is normal. Being a stay-at-home mom and feeling a sense of boredom is normal. However, if your desires and energy level fade out, a doctor visit might be a good idea.

I have battled with depression a lot in my life. The one symptom I face is boredom. In fact, I am a bored eater. There are times I pace the house and eat everything in sight throughout the day due to boredom. The only time I binge is when I am bored.

I try to keep myself busy, but nothing excites me. When I am feeling pretty good, I am still bored. Boredom has been my biggest complaint while battling with depression. To be honest, I am a full-time college student, I have four children, and I am married. How can someone like me be bored?

At times, I find myself saying, "I am bored." I sound like a broken record and, sometimes, people in my life will say, "Then go do something."

Some experts believe that boredom is lacking a sense of meaning in one's life. Although, I agree with this, I truly believe that boredom should be taken seriously. It's true that many people haven't looked deep within themselves, their dreams, and goals. They may hate their job, live alone, and are distant from family and friends.

We all have a meaning in life, but sometimes we don't have the drive to do it. If a person doesn't have a "meaning in life" and never identified their goals, wouldn't you agree that this sounds like depression?

To test the waters so to speak as to whether it is boredom or depression, a friend or family member should make plans to do something fun, get the person to paint, write, go to the movies, or do whatever they are interested in. If they find no enjoyment from the activity, then I would consider looking more into it.

To many, boredom is a state of mind, but the state of depression comes from the mind which altars the way we think and the way we feel.

Learn more about this author, Teresa Brouwer.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.