Everyone of us experiences feelings of depression at some point in our lives, but if these feelings begin to affect your day-to-day functioning it may be a sign of something more. Depression is a complex and serious medical condition, and a proper diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional such as your family doctor. That being said, below you will find 10 signs of depression to look out for.
What is depression?
Just as you experience joy and happiness, sadness and feeling down are a normal part of life. But depression goes beyond sadness to include feelings of hopelessness and despair. It can change the way you think, feel, and function in daily activities. If it isn't treated, it can become a serious health problem. It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms if you think you may be depressed.
10 signs of depression
1. Persistent sadness: Feeling sad, down, or empty most of the day, nearly every day.
2. Loss of interest: Losing interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy, including hobbies, social interactions, and relationships.
3. Changes in sleep patterns: Sleeping too much or too little, experiencing insomnia, or having disrupted sleep patterns.
4. Changes in appetite or weight: Significant changes in appetite, leading to weight gain or weight loss.
5. Fatigue and lack of energy: Experiencing ongoing fatigue, low energy levels, and a sense of heaviness in daily activities.
6. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt: Frequent feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, or self-criticism.
7. Difficulty concentrating: Struggling with focus, memory, decision-making, and other cognitive functions.
8. Physical symptoms: Experiencing unexplained physical symptoms like headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain that do not respond to treatment.
9. Isolation: Withdrawing from social activities, avoiding friends and family, and preferring to be alone.
10. Thoughts of death or suicide: Recurrent thoughts of death, dying, and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is experiencing these thoughts, seek help immediately.
Remember that everyone’s experience of depression is unique, and not everyone will show all of these signs. Also, some of these symptoms can be connected to other health conditions, so please talk to a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation. No matter how hopeless you may feel, help is always available.
Please feel free to reach out to me if you would like to explore this further.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or thinking about suicide, please call Distress Centres of Greater Toronto Crisis Line: 416-408-4357 or 911.