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Recognizing the Signs of Depression

Symptoms and signs of depression can be easily overlooked and disregarded by the untrained person. Therefore, it is very important to learn to recognize the symptoms in others, so we can offer help and encouragement to loved ones who may be suffering. Perhaps you have not been feeling like yourself lately, and you wonder if you might have a mood disorder as well. Familiarizing yourself with the signs of depression and speak with your doctor, who is the only person qualified to diagnose you with the condition.

If you do have depression, it can be easily treatable with several different methods, including talk therapy and medication. The first step, however, is to educate yourself about the different way depression can manifest itself. There are both physical and emotional symptoms that may be confused with other medical issues. In fact, many who suffer from depression think they are having temporary “blues” that will soon pass. True depression requires treatment, and it will not get better on its own.

Signs of depression can include any of the following symptoms, though the first two are the trademark signs a doctor may look for.

Lack of Interest

One of the two most common signs of depression includes a decreasing interest in activities or people that you once found enjoyable. If you find yourself avoiding phone calls, outings, or get-togethers, it may suggest depression. Even daily activities will seem like much more of a chore. This can included everything from playing with your children, to cooking dinner.

Sad or Depressed Mood

Many people mistakenly believe that anyone who is sad has depression. While it’s true that sad times in our lives, such as during a death or other loss, we may feel blue and down. However, true depression is noted by a sad or depressed mood for weeks or months on end. The moods may not necessarily be triggered by a sad event, either.

Physical Illnesses

Strangely enough, other signs of depression include physical ailments. Constant gastrointestinal trouble, backaches, or headaches can be a red flag. High blood pressure or anxiety is another physiological response to the hormonal changes that occur during depression.

Negative Thinking

A depressed person will most likely display behavior that is negative towards his or herself. They may call themselves a failure, and make comments that “nothing ever goes right.” A poor attitude and negative or pessimistic responses to daily occurrences are common signs of depression.

Destructive Behavior

Often, if the depressed person doesn’t know how to deal with their frustrations, they may take it out on themselves. Abuse of the body through cutting, overeating, drinking alcohol, doing drugs, or even engaging in risky sexual behavior are all serious signs of depression. Those who destroy their bodies are at a higher risk for suicide, and their abuse is a call for help.

Fatigue and Sleeplessness

Depression can either cause a manic state, where the person is hyper and cannot sit still or sleep well. They may have trouble falling or staying asleep due to the anxiety depression can cause. Other signs of depression include being tired all the time, having no energy to do simple tasks, or having constant full-body aches.

If you recognize any of the above behaviors in yourself or someone you love, seek the help and advice of a doctor. He or she will prescribe the best treatment options for your situation. Don’t be afraid to admit that you need help to deal with your feelings. Depression is a serious disorder that can lead to physical ailments, even death, so it is important to recognize the signs of depression when you see them.