Signs of Depression

Are you depressed? Feeling down from time to time is a normal way of life. We all go through our ups and downs, but when these feelings become overwhelming and take a hold of your life, it may be depression. The lows of depression make it hard to function through daily life and can keep you from leading a normal life. If left untreated symptoms of clinical or major depression may worsen or last for years. Unfortunately approximately half of the people who experience symptoms never do get diagnosed or treated. Not getting treatment can be life threatening, More than one in ten depressed individuals commit suicide.

Depression varies from person to person, but there are some common signs and symptoms. It’s important to know that you may be experiencing some of these symptoms as a part of life’s daily lows. However, the more symptoms you have, the stronger they are and the longer they’ve lasted; the more likely you are to suffer from depression.

Common signs and symptoms of depression:

§  Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. A bleak outlook—nothing will ever get better and there’s nothing you can do to improve your situation.

§  Loss of interest in daily activities. No interest in former hobbies, pastimes, social activities, or sex. You’ve lost your ability to feel joy and pleasure.

§  Appetite or weight changes. Significant weight loss or weight gain—a change of more than 5% of body weight in a month.

§  Sleep changes. Either insomnia, especially waking in the early hours of the morning, or oversleeping (also known as hypersomnia).

§  Anger or irritability. Feeling agitated, restless, or even violent. Your tolerance level is low, your temper short, and everything and everyone gets on your nerves.

§  Loss of energy. Feeling fatigued, sluggish, and physically drained. Your whole body may feel heavy, and even small tasks are exhausting or take longer to complete.

§  Self-loathing. Strong feelings of worthlessness or guilt. You harshly criticize yourself for perceived faults and mistakes.

§  Reckless behavior. You engage in escapist behavior such as substance abuse, compulsive gambling, reckless driving, or dangerous sports.

§  Concentration problems. Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.

§  Unexplained aches and pains. An increase in physical complaints such as headaches, back pain, aching muscles, and stomach pain.