What is boredom a symptom of

Boredom is marked by an empty feeling, as well as a sense of frustration with that emptiness. You may feel apathetic, fatigued, nervous, or jittery. Almost everyone experiences boredom from time to time. Some age groups might experience more boredom than others. Adolescents frequently experience boredom. Not knowing where to focus can lead to boredom.

Boredom is a normal response to some situations. And while there are no tests to diagnose boredom, boredom that lasts for long periods of time, or occurs frequently, may be a sign of depression.

Symptoms of boredom and depression are sometimes similar. Working with a mental health professional and also asking questions may give you clues about what your child may be experiencing.

If boredom is interfering with your ability to complete necessary tasks, or hampering your quality of life, talk to your doctor. Your boredom may be related to depression if you experience the following symptoms:. Your doctor will be able to help you distinguish between boredom and depression and get you the necessary treatment. For example, you may want to consider trying some new hobbies or other new diversional activities. Joining a club can be a good way to thwart your boredom.

Reading clubs, hobby groups, or exercise groups are all great places to start. Joining a community group that organizes activities and outings is another good idea. You can help your child cope with feelings of boredom when they arise.

When they complain of boredom, encourage them to communicate. Address their feelings without questioning the validity of their feelings.

Take time to help them identify the causes of their boredom and find creative solutions. What happens in the brain when we are bored? Written by Maria Cohut, Ph. Share on Pinterest What happens in the brains of people who are prone to boredom? New research finds out. The study premises. Brain activity in those prone to boredom. Latest news Could 'cupping' technique boost vaccine delivery? Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help?

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Use this space to talk to yourself differently about your boredom and get more curious about what could be under it. Boredom could be a profound opportunity for you to reflect and pivot the way you're currently living if it's no longer serving you. Consider the relationships you're in, your career, and the depth of your friendships, and see how they're affecting you. It may be time to try new things and even allow them to not work.

You won't know if something is a good fit unless you give it a good shot at success. Lastly, remember that no feeling lasts forever.

If chronic boredom begins to affect your mood negatively or affects how present you feel, it is recommended to seek some outside supportive resources to help understand and navigate it, such as a partner, friend, your community, or a therapist. Seeing a therapist for this is very common and a healthy way to process boredom if you're feeling stuck.

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Explore Classes. Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Ayanna Abrams, Psy. January 14, Facebook Twitter. Boredom can mean a few things, depending on how it presents and persists in your life. How a parent's boredom might affect their children. How to cope with feelings of boredom.