Think you may be experiencing symptoms of depression? You’re not alone. Over 70.9 million prescriptions for anti-depressants were given in 2018, a significant climb from the 36 million that were prescribed in 2008.

While the number of those affected by depression continue to gradually climb, there are still many that struggle with identifying whether or not depression is actually at hand, and what they can do about it.

If you feel that you or someone that you love is facing depression, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and to know just how severe the depression may be.

Read on for more information on the symptoms of depression, potential treatments, and how to get the care you need today.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Depression 

Everyone faces feelings of unhappiness from time to time. However, it’s important to understand that simply feeling unhappy is very different from the feeling of being depressed.

While the term depression may be thrown around after a traumatic event like a bad breakup or being laid off from your job, it doesn’t fully express what happens to patients in a depressed state or what major depressive disorder looks like.

As a result, many individuals live with depression day in and day out but have yet to have it diagnosed or to receive the treatment they need to return to a normal and healthy life.

Which is why it’s important to recognize the symptoms of depression early on and to seek out help from a mental health professional who can get you the treatment and care that’s needed.

Read on for our list of recognizable depression symptoms.

Feeling Hopeless

Feeling depressed is not only a mood that’s addressed in the present, but it’s an outlook for the future and what’s to come. Those who are depressed often feel like their future is hopeless, with feelings of low self-esteem and even guilt. 

If you’re experiencing depression you may have thoughts that your current condition is your fault or that there’s no point in participating in your life or day-to-day activities.

A General Loss of Interest

Those who struggle with depression have trouble finding the joy they once experienced in their day-to-day activities.

This can mean that everything from favorite hobbies to time with a loved one no longer seems appealing and that even leaving the house takes a significant effort.

A decrease in libido or impotency are also signs that depression may be present.

Sleeping Too Much (or Not Being Able to Sleep at All)

The overwhelming feeling of fatigue or tiredness is also common for those experiencing depression.

You may find it difficult to find the energy to do anything at all, which typically starts a vicious cycle of depression, cutting you off from the things that may typically help you. On the flip side, depression often results in insomnia.

Since depression and anxiety tend to go hand-in-hand, the individuals suffering from depression may have their head filled with negative thoughts at night making it almost impossible to fall asleep.

Anxiety

Those suffering from depression and those suffering from anxiety typically have symptoms that go hand-in-hand, which is why it’s not uncommon to find individuals who suffer from both.

Those suffering from depression and anxiety may have feelings of panic or worrisome thoughts on a regular basis. This can make it difficult to think clearly or to have realistic thoughts of what you fear may happen.

A Dramatic Change in Weight

Similar to sleep problems, depression can show in a couple of dramatic ways when it comes to weight. Those suffering from depression may gain extra weight or they may lose too much weight due to increased appetite or lack of appetite.

The way you can differentiate emotional eating from depressed weight gain is how intentional the individual is when eating.

Those who are depressed genuinely don’t intend to eat more than usual or aren’t trying to suppress their appetite, rather it comes as an additional side effect.

Irritability 

While some women with depression may experience irritability this symptom tends to manifest more often with men.

Research has shown that men are less likely to admit they are suffering from depression or to seek help for it. As a result, their frustration with their own feelings can lead to enhance irritability, addiction, or even violent behavior.

Suicidal Thoughts 

In some severe cases of depression, suicidal thoughts may be present.

This is typically the case for those who have been suffering from depression for some time without receiving any form of treatment. This is also most commonly associated with those who experience feelings of hopelessness on a regular basis.

It’s important to be on the lookout for any symptoms of those who may be contemplating suicide. Remember, those are considering suicide are likely to bring it up casually before attempting to do so.

If you think that someone you know may be considering suicide, it’s important to call your local emergency number and to stay with the individual until help is available.

The Help You Need When You Need It

If you or someone you love relates to one or more of these symptoms of depression, we suggest taking the time to get the treatment you need. Working with a mental health professional is the first step towards a life of happiness, energy, and satisfaction.

Contact us today for information on our counseling and depression services and to see how we can be of assistance of you today.