Depression is a mood disorder that goes beyond temporary sadness. It affects millions of people around the world and can manifest itself in a variety of ways. If you’re wondering whether you or someone you know might be struggling with depression, this post will help you identify the most common symptoms and seek timely help.
Emotional symptoms
- Deep and persistent sadness: The main characteristic of depression is intense sadness that does not go away easily. This sadness may be accompanied by crying, discouragement, and a general feeling of emptiness.
- Loss of interest and pleasure: Activities you once enjoyed no longer bring you any satisfaction. Even everyday tasks may seem tedious and meaningless.
- Irritability and frustration: You may feel irritable and easily upset by small things. Outbursts of anger and mood swings are common in depression.
- Feelings of guilt and low self-esteem: You may have negative thoughts about yourself and feel guilty for no reason. Low self-esteem can affect your self-image and relationships.
- Excessive anxiety and worry: Anxiety is a common symptom of depression. You may feel restless, nervous, or afraid of what might happen.
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions: Depression can affect your ability to focus on tasks and make decisions. You may feel confused and disoriented.
Physical symptoms
- Fatigue and lack of energy: You may feel constantly tired, even after getting enough sleep. Lack of energy can make it difficult for you to carry out your daily activities.
- Changes in appetite: You may lose or gain weight without explanation. Some eating-related symptoms include loss of appetite, increased appetite, or cravings for specific foods.
- Sleep problems: Depression can cause insomnia or sleeping too much. You may wake up frequently during the night or feel like you haven’t gotten enough rest.
- Physical pain: Some physical symptoms associated with depression include headaches, muscle aches, and digestive problems.
Behavioral symptoms
- Social isolation: You may avoid contact with friends and family and prefer to be alone. This can make depression worse and make it harder to find support.
- Personal neglect: You may neglect your personal hygiene and physical appearance.
- Decreased work or academic performance: Depression can affect your performance at work or school. You may have difficulty concentrating, meeting deadlines, and making decisions.
- Self-destructive behaviors: You may turn to alcohol or drug use, gambling, or other dangerous behaviors to try to relieve emotional pain .
Depression in adolescents
Teenagers may experience depression differently than adults. Some common symptoms of teenage depression include:
- Irritability and moodiness: Teens with depression may be more irritable and prone to tantrums than their peers.
- Agitation and restlessness: They may have difficulty sitting still or concentrating.
- Risky behaviors: They may engage in dangerous behaviors such as drug or alcohol use, reckless driving, or unprotected sex.
- Problems at school: Their academic performance may decline and they may have trouble attending classes or completing assignments.
Postpartum depression
Postpartum depression is a type of depression that affects women after childbirth. Symptoms may include:
- Low mood and tearfulness: You may feel sad, irritable or anxious for no apparent reason.
- Lack of interest in baby: You may not feel an emotional bond with your baby or enjoy caring for him or her.
- Negative thoughts: You may have negative thoughts about yourself, your baby, or your future.
- Difficulty concentrating: You may have trouble focusing on tasks or remembering things.
- Changes in sleep and appetite: You may sleep too much or too little, and have changes in appetite.
- Fatigue and lack of energy: You may feel constantly tired, even after getting enough sleep.
What to do if you have depression?
If you have two or more of these symptoms for more than 15 days, it is important to seek professional help. Depression is a treatable condition and there are many resources available to help you feel better. A therapist or psychologist can help you understand your depression and develop a way to recover, remember that you can call the free national helpline in your country.
