There was a time when hobbies, outings, or favorite shows brought joy. Picking up a guitar, going for a run, or planning a weekend with friends felt exciting. But now, those same activities feel heavy. The spark is gone and what once brought energy now feels like a chore. This quiet fading of interest is one of the most painful signs of depression and it often goes unnoticed by others.

In counselling, I recall a conversation with Mark (name changed) who described how he slowly lost interest in his passions. “I used to love photography,” he shared. “I would spend hours capturing landscapes and sunsets. But now, even when I hold my camera, I feel nothing. It is like the joy has been drained out of me.” His words carried both sadness and confusion, how could something that once defined him now feel so distant?

Depression has a way of numbing pleasure. It is not about being lazy or careless; it is the brain’s chemistry shifting, dulling the ability to feel joy. This can leave people questioning their identity. You may think: If I do not enjoy the things I once loved, then who am I now? These thoughts deepen the weight of depression, making it harder to reach out for help.

This loss also affects relationships. Friends may invite you out, but you decline. Family may encourage you to join activities, but you struggle to care. Over time, this withdrawal can create isolation, which fuels the cycle further. To the outside world, you might seem uninterested. Inside, you may feel grief for the person you once were.

There are ways to begin rekindling that spark, even if it feels far away. One approach is revisiting old passions in smaller steps. Instead of trying to dive back into a full day of activity, spend just a few minutes with what you once loved. Mark began by taking his camera on short evening walks, capturing just one or two photos. Slowly, he began to reconnect with the sense of calm photography once gave him.

Another helpful practice is exploring new sources of interest without pressure. Depression often convinces us that if something does not feel the same, it is pointless to try. But experimenting with a new hobby or even a new twist on an old one, can gently open the door to enjoyment again.

The quiet grip of depression does not erase who you are, it only clouds it. With the right support and patient steps, the ability to enjoy life can return. You are not defined by what depression has taken away.

You do not have to carry this alone. Support is available, and taking the first step can change everything. Visit www.drkaranvirsingh.com and book your free 20-minute session today.