Feeling down from time to time is a normal part of life, but if you feel persistent feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, and no hope for life, chances are you have depression. According to the World Health Organisation, approximately 280 million people are suffering from depression, among which women are more subject to this medical illness compared to men. Recognizing the symptoms and warning signs of depression is crucial for early intervention and support. In this blog, we’ll discuss the symptoms and warning signs of depression to help you identify it earlier and enable you to start treatment for depression on time.
But first, what is depression?
Depression is a common yet serious medical illness that has a negative impact on your emotions. It is also known as major depression, major depressive disorder, or clinical depression. It’s a constant feeling of sadness and loss of interest that starts interfering with your daily activities. People with depression cannot “pull themselves together” and get better. Without treatment, symptoms of depression can last for weeks, months, or years.
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What are the symptoms of depression?
– Persistent Sadness:
Perhaps, one of the most common symptoms you can experience while having depression, is a persistent feeling of sadness that goes through the day and even lasts for weeks or months. This feeling of sadness is not directly linked to a particular event or circumstance and can become overbearing and overwhelming to the affected person.
– Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
Having a bleak outlook that nothing will ever get better and helplessness from the feeling that you can do nothing to improve the situation are characterized as one of the symptoms of depression.
– Loss of Interest or Pleasure
While having depression, you might experience a diminished capacity to experience less or no joy in activities you once used to enjoy. Your hobbies or pastimes, social activities, or initiating activities no longer interest you. You have overall lost your ability to feel joy and pleasure.
– Appetite or weight change
Depression can lead to physical symptoms such as loss of appetite or may turn to emotional overeating that results in weight gain.
– Loss of energy
Feeling fatigued, sluggish, or physically drained are some of the common symptoms of depression. You might feel as if your whole body has become heavy, and even daily chores and activities may feel exhausting to complete.
– Anger or irritability
Feeling agitated, restless, or furious is indicative of depression. The tolerance level at this time is very low; your temper is short, and even minor issues get on your nerves.
– Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Individuals suffering from depression harbor intense feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-blame. These emotions can be disproportionate to the circumstances, contributing to a negative self-perception.
Warning signs of depression that demand immediate attention
The signs mentioned above are indicative of depression, but there are warning signs that, as a guardian or friend of the affected person, you need to be aware of and seek immediate support for:
– Thoughts of Self-Harm or Suicide
Depression includes feelings of extreme distress that may result in suicidal thoughts or self-harm that should be addressed immediately. It is crucial for individuals to experience such extreme feelings, and it is thus highly recommended that they seek emergency services immediately such as Nicky Reavley Therapy.
– Social Withdrawal
Social withdrawal appears to be common in depression, but it calls for immediate healthcare professional attention. This social withdrawal has a very negative effect on the individual and is indicative of a deep depressive state. Encouraging connection and emotional support can help make a positive change.
– Sudden Mood Swings
Sudden mood swings are typically associated with medical illnesses such as depression. These fluctuations often need careful observation, support, and Depression Treatment Therapy.
– Neglect of personal care
A noticeable neglect of personal hygiene and appearance may signal a severe decline in mental well-being. This visible change can be an external manifestation of the internal struggle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, recognizing the symptoms and warning signs of depression is paramount for early intervention and support. Depression is a serious medical illness affecting millions worldwide, and seeking timely treatment is crucial. By understanding the indicators and offering compassionate assistance, we can contribute to creating a supportive environment for those battling depression, fostering hope and healing.
