State of Depression is a term used to describe a period of low spirits, lack of motivation, and feeling of hopelessness. DOLDRUMS is an 8-letter word that is often used to refer to this state of depression. It is derived from the nautical term for a region of the ocean near the equator where there is little or no wind, making sailing difficult. The term has been used metaphorically to describe a period of stagnation or inactivity.