Recognizing the Symptoms of Depression
Depression is not a sign of weakness or a reason for shame, it is an illness. Even in cases of serious clinical depression, treatment is usually very successful. And the earlier treatment is started, the more successful it is. The thing to remember about recognizing depression is that it's not a one-size-fits-all disorder. There are many symptoms, and one person's experience may be completely different from another person. Don't hesitate to reach out if you or someone you know needs help. Knowing the warning signs can help let you know if you need to speak to a doctor.
Spot the warning signs of depression
Feeling low or down once in a while is a very common thing, and most of us go through such feelings occasionally. However, if you are persistently surrounded by sadness or you feel doomed most of the time, there is a fair amount of possibility that you may be battling with depression. Not everyone with depression will display the typical symptoms of sadness and despair. Among the most common things to look out for are discussed below.
#1 Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
This is the most common symptom of depression. It can include feeling down or being pessimistic about the future. People can experience this even if everything in their lives seems to be going well. Clinical depression impacts every aspect of a person's life. It generally doesn't go away on its own, and it's not the person's fault. Depression feels like hopeless with no end, pain without relief.
#2 Increased tearfulness
Did you know that crying serves a very useful purpose? Stress hormones are released through tears. However, if the person is crying much more than usual for no clear reasons it may be a sign that depression is at work.
#3 Sleep changes
Sleep changes are among the first symptoms a person might notice when dealing with depression. Waking up too early in the morning, not being able to fall asleep, or sleeping too much can all be signs of depression.
#4 Suicidal thoughts
Having thoughts of harming oneself is a serious symptom of depression and should be taken seriously. If anyone you or you know is thinking about suicide, reach out to a doctor immediately.
#5 No motivation
Depression can take the pleasure out of the things a person used to love. A loss of interest or withdrawal from activities that you once looked forward to is a telltale sign of depression.
#6 Changes in appetite and weight
The symptoms of depression are overwhelming. A sudden change in appetite is a common sign of depression that should not be ignored. Both eating too much and not eating enough can be signs of depression. Understanding the link between depression and your appetite can help you manage.
#7 Uncontrollable emotions
One minute it's an outburst of anger. The next you're crying uncontrollably. Nothing outside of you prompted the change, but your emotions are up and down at a moment's notice.
#8 Forced happiness
Sometimes, people may hide the symptoms and put on a happy face when in the company of others. However, it can be difficult to keep up this forced happiness, so the mask may eventually slip and the person will start to show signs of sadness, hopelessness, or loneliness.
#9 Low sex drive
Changes in sex drive are a key indicator for diagnosing episodes of major depression. There are several reasons that a person's libido might decrease when they have depression, like loss of interest, low self-esteem, low energy levels, etc.
#10 Fatigue
Studies show that over 80 percent of people with depression suffer from fatigue, making it physically and mentally difficult to carry out daily tasks. Sometimes, the only signs a person may show are physical like fatigue, insomnia, or change in body weight. Other signs of hidden depression can include overuse of alcohol or drugs, acting irritable, and losing interest in things.
#11 Guilt & Anger
People with severe depression may be overly self-critical. A lot of people think of signs of depression as sadness, crying, and melancholy, but anger can be a common sign too. It might be that anger is a more comfortable or socially acceptable channel of expression.
#12 Physical symptoms
People with depression often experience aches and pains, headaches, or digestive distress that do not seem to have any other medical cause and do not respond to treatment.
Getting help is crucial
Never feel like you need to tackle depression on your own. Picking the right person to help you overcome any emotional or mental troubles is important. We, at Prashanth Hospitals, strongly believe that your mental health is a very important part of your overall health. Seeking care from a professional could be the best decision you ever make for your mental health. If you see someone struggling with any of these symptoms, urge them to talk to a doctor and get the help and comfort they need. Prashanth Hospitals offers comprehensive psychiatric treatments for people of all ages. Our doctors are trained to understand a variety of aspects of mental issues. We have the best clinical psychologists and experienced clinical psychiatrists in Chennai for the treatment and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.