Unfortunately, millions of Americans suffer from depression each year. While it can affect anyone of any age, gender, or race, depression is even more prominent in certain demographics.
For instance, if you’re living with a chronic illness, you have special needs, or you suffer from substance use, you’re at an increased risk for developing depression. As a result, this can affect your daily life and your ability to handle responsibilities.
That’s where learning the symptoms of depression comes in. When you can recognize the signs of depression, you can get help and start on the path to recovery.
So, keep reading for the most common symptoms of depression and how you can manage them.
1. Uncontrollable Crying
Uncontrollable crying is one of the most common symptoms of depression. Crying can either be quiet with few tears or intense with a great deal of emotion. It can last for a few moments, or it can last for hours at a time. There may be no apparent reason or trigger for this uncontrollable crying, or it may come in response to an event or other type of stimulus.
2. Lethargy and Fatigue
Lethargy is the feeling of being too tired or weak to do your normal daily activities. It can also make you feel unmotivated, disinterested, and disconnected. Fatigue is a feeling of extreme exhaustion, not just irritation or sleepiness. Lethargy and fatigue caused by depression can become so severe that it’s difficult to even get out of bed in the morning.
3. Changes in Eating Habits
Oftentimes, people with depression may feel little appetite or an inability to eat due to nausea or gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and constipation. They may find it difficult to concentrate on eating or suffer from changes in their sense of smell or taste. On the other hand, some people may experience an increase in their appetite, leading to binge eating or comfort eating.
Changes in eating habits due to depression are frequently accompanied by weight fluctuations. If you are noticing unexplained changes in your eating habits, be sure to reach out for help and learn more about depression therapy and how it can help you.
4. Mental Health Struggles
Symptoms may manifest differently in each individual, but some of the most common include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable, irritability, anxiety, low energy, and fatigue. Some people may have difficulty with self-esteem, insomnia, excessive guilt, reckless behavior, and difficulty concentrating.
See also: 7 Must-Have Help Desk Software
5. Isolation and Withdrawal
Isolation is characterized by avoiding social contact or activities, withdrawing from family and friends, and avoiding contact with the outside world. Withdrawal is often seen as a sign of physical or emotional withdrawal, such as spending less time with people and avoiding activities that used to bring joy.
People who are isolated or withdrawn are more likely to experience suicidal thoughts, so it is important to recognize these signs and seek help from a professional.
Symptoms of Depression to Look Out For
Depression can be challenging to identify, but understanding the symptoms is important for proper diagnosis. By being aware of the possible signs and symptoms, you can take steps to improve your mental health. If you have symptoms of depression, don’t wait to seek professional help. Talk to a doctor or mental health professional.
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