Signs of Depression

Everyone feels sad or down from time to time, maybe due to stress or a particular situation. But when these feelings go on for longer than a couple of weeks and your daily life becomes affected, you may have depression.

You might feel like each day, each moment, is a struggle for you. It’s really difficult to do the regular things you are used to doing. But that doesn’t’ mean that you aren’t doing them. Even if you might laugh with a friend or do something you enjoy, deep down you are still fighting the monster that is depression.

So how do you know if you are depressed? I’m going to discuss a few symptoms that, when you have them together, might indicate that you have depression.

Feeling Hopeless
The first symptom, and probably the most common, is feelings of hopelessness and/or constant pessimism. Feeling like you have no future and that things will never get better, no matter what you do. Feeling like you have no control over your life and that it doesn’t matter anyhow because these feelings just aren’t going away.

Loss of Interest in Things
The second symptom of depression is a loss of interest in daily activities. So maybe you used to enjoy a sport, reading or some other hobby. Now you have no interest in doing any of it. This includes sex.

Changes in Appetite and Sleep Patterns
Another sign to look for is changes in appetite and sleep patterns. A significant change in body weight that isn’t attributed to an existing eating disorder. Difficulty falling or staying asleep is quite common, as well as oversleeping – you might find it difficult to get the energy to get out of bed in the morning.

Loss of Energy
This leads me to the next symptom of depression – loss of energy. Yep. You feel fatigued and physically drained. This contributes to feeling like you just don’t want to do anything because it takes so much energy for even small tasks.

Suicidal Attempts or Suicidal Ideation
If you are having thoughts of suicide or harming yourself, you should seek help immediately. Call 911, a crisis line in your area or call or go to your local hospital.

Feelings of Anger or Irritability
You might be easily agitated with a short temper. Everything and everyone gets on your nerves and you have little patience for simple things. But no wonder! You’re having trouble sleeping, you aren’t finding pleasure in things, you feel hopeless, of course you are irritated!

This list consisted of 6 of the most common symptoms of depression. Remember, we are all individuals and depression manifests differently in each of us.

What should your next step be? If you feel you might be depressed, I want you to know that there is help out there. Depression is something that you can fight and you can get through. Please start by reaching out to your doctor and your therapist if you have one. Talking about it with a trusted friend or family member can help too.

Treatment usually involves a combination of social support, lifestyle changes, emotional skills building, and seeking professional help.