If you or someone you care about isn’t feeling well mentally, and it’s affecting the normal activities of daily living, it might be more than just a case of the blues. Having symptoms of depression can indicate that a larger mental health issue is at play. Depression can manifest differently in individuals, and it can be a complicated condition that may vary in severity over time. It’s important to note that experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that someone is depressed, as a diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare provider. However, here are fifteen symptoms often associated with depression:
1. Persistent sadness or low mood: Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the time, and having difficulty finding enjoyment in activities that were once pleasurable.
2. Loss of interest or pleasure: Losing interest in activities, hobbies, or relationships that used to bring joy or satisfaction.
3. Fatigue or decreased energy: Feeling tired, physically drained, or lacking energy, even after adequate rest or sleep.
4. Restlessness or irritability: Feeling agitated, restless, or easily annoyed.
5. Physical symptoms: Experiencing unexplained physical ailments such as headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain.
6. Loss of interest in sex: Decreased libido and lack of interest in sexual activities.
7. Social withdrawal: Withdrawing from social interactions, avoiding friends or family.
8. Thoughts of death or suicide: Persistent thoughts of death, dying, or suicidal ideation.
9. Changes in behavior: Noticeable changes in behavior, such as increased recklessness or a decrease in personal care.
10. Emotional instability: Experiencing frequent mood swings, feeling excessively sad, or easily becoming overwhelmed.
11. Slowed movements or speech: Psychomotor agitation or retardation, where physical movements or speech slow down.
12. Changes in appetite or weight: Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite, either an increase (comfort eating) or a decrease (loss of appetite).
13. Sleep disturbances: Experiencing insomnia (difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or early morning awakening) or hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness or prolonged sleep).
14. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions: Struggling with concentration, memory, and decision-making. People may feel indecisive, have trouble focusing, or experience a decline in their cognitive abilities.
15. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt: Having negative thoughts about oneself, feeling excessively guilty or worthless, or experiencing self-criticism without reasonable cause.
Remember that these symptoms can vary from person to person, and it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms. Additionally, depression can be accompanied by other symptoms, and not everyone will exhibit the same signs.
Working with a therapist can greatly help a depressed person or the family member of a depressed person learn more about this condition and deal with the symptoms at hand. Chenal Family Therapy has a full staff of mental health professionals standing by to help you deal with depression and its many symptoms. Call us today to find out if we would be a good fit to help you or a loved one manage and overcome symptoms of depression.
SPP is a subset of Chenal Family Therapy, PLC, ACEP Provider Number: 7233