We all have our days of occasional blues, when we feel too low emotionally. It can be after a hard day at work, after a break-up, death of a loved one or long waiting promotion. However, Depression has much more deep roots emotionally, psychologically and physiologically.
Being unhappy/sad is not the same as depression. The word depression is quite often used loosely to describe our general sadness. Here are few signs of depression that you can go through to identify and also understand that what can be done about it.
Yes, depression does mean feeling sad. But in Major Depression, the intensity of the sadness outweighs being unhappy. The low mood in depression is crippling to the point where it impacts the way you look at yourself and life in general. It is present most of the day and nearly every day. The sense of feeling empty is a first sign in any depressive episode.
The second most common sign of depression is decreased interest in day to day activities. This could be observed by disinterest to meet friends or giving up activities that were previously enjoyed. This is not like missing a party once in a while, it is a repetitive behaviour. At times even when being involved in the situation the pleasure that you once obtained by engaging in it is no longer present.
Self-hate, sense of worthlessness and hopelessness are also very common signs of depression. There is the bleak outlook that nothing will ever get better and there is the constant self-guilt that “I am responsible for it all”, “I am horrible”, “I am a failure”, “I deserve this” etc.
A person suffering from depression has constant mood swings ranging from uncontrollable anger at one minute to uncontrollable crying the next. The mood swings are majorly towards negative emotions like irritability, anger, sadness, crying or self-harm.
Depression impacts physically as well. It disturbs your appetite. You may either gain or lose weight which might take place when not dieting as well. A significant amount of change is weight is an alarming sign which needs to be looked into.
There are different sleep patterns of every individual during depression. You might either sleep excessively (10-12 hrs a day) or sleep slightly (3-4hrs a day). There might also be reversal in sleep cycle, where you might be able to sleep during the day and not at night. Again, this is not a one-time occurrence, it is a repetitive pattern.
Fatigue is another most important sign of depression. It can also be the reason why you are unable to take part in activities you enjoy. It also impairs functioning at work by reducing concentration and attention. Despite having slept adequately but unable to feel fresh and carrying that sense of tiredness is depression.
There is persistent need to break away from the sadness, hence self -harm or suicidal ideations are very common. If there is substance abuse along with the ongoing depressive episodes, the chances of attempting suicide increases.
If you are noticing that either you or your loved one have been displaying these behaviours for more than 2 weeks, it is likely that they are undergoing a depressive episode. Follow the steps below to provide better help.
Just like after every stormy night a new day with sunlight appears, it’s the same with depression. It is an evil that establishes its deep roots in the individual. But it does not mean it cannot be uprooted.
Seeking help is a sign of courage. Don't let self-limiting beliefs hold you back from a life you deserve. Avail online therapy to become happier and better. Learn how
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