Warning Signs of Depression
Depression is a very serious condition that can be debilitating to the sufferer if it is not treated. It is essential for even the average person to know the warning signs of depression in order to recognize it in a friend or relative.
That does not mean that everyone should be experienced in recognizing depression signs, but they should have enough knowledge to be able to make a logical decision about whether a loved one needs help with depression or is just going through a temporary period of sadness.
The symptoms of depression will vary from one person to another, especially if the sufferer is a teenager. While adults will usually exhibit sadness, teenagers will usually show anger or aggressiveness. The depression signs a person will exhibit will also depend on the level of the depressive state. At the same time the level of depression can change within a matter of minutes when triggered by certain situations. If a friend or family member exhibits unusual behavior that may possibly be depression, there must be someone available to help determine if there is a need to consult a mental health professional.
The warning signs of depression can and do vary with the severity of the condition. The most common symptoms of major depression include the following:
- No interest in your regular daily routine
- A feeling of sadness
- A feeling of hopelessness
- Crying for no reason
- Sleep disorders
- Having difficulty making decisions
- Weight gain or loss without trying
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Becoming annoyed easily
- Experiencing fatigue or weakness
- Feeling of worthlessness
- Lack of interest in sex
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Physical problems without a medical cause such as headaches or back pain
Quite often people do not equate physical symptoms with depression. It is very common for one to understand that the symptoms of depression may include things such as feeling sad and being unable to sleep or concentrate, but it is rare for people to think that depression can cause physical symptoms. For a new mother these symptoms may be the signs of postpartum depression. In addition, other symptoms such as restlessness and irritability are often blamed on stress or lack of sleep instead of looking to the possibility of depression. It is not from lack of knowledge because sources are available that allow us to compare our symptoms to those of depression in order to discover whether there is a need for a mental health professional to become involved.
Depression can be very difficult to recognize yet it is becoming more common than it has in the past. Whether it is the result of more stress in our lifestyles or more people recognizing it and seeking treatment for depression is difficult to determine. However, there is no doubt teenage depression is on the increase with teenage suicide being one of the most common causes of death among young people 15–24 years old. [Read here → The Threat of Suicide]
Many warning signs go unheeded by those suffering from depression because they are afraid to seek help. This is especially true of those who are showing signs of postpartum depression. Whether it is from fear or simply lack of knowledge is the question. Some people have a fear they will lose their jobs or families if they admit to suffering from depression. Treatment for depression is so readily available that one does not have to worry about others finding out with today’s privacy laws. It is essential for everyone to understand how easy it is to relieve depression with the right medication and treatment plan.
💡 Find here → A Detailed Overview of the Treatments for Depression
