Depression is a very serious condition that affects more than 264 million people worldwide. While it has been known to cause sudden shifts in mood and anxiety, there is a lot more to learn about its other effects and symptoms. In fact, you may have come across someone with the very same kind of affliction without even knowing that they have it, and that can be attributed to the fact that not all signs of depression are noticeable.
Most of them are subtle and indirect; that is why everyone needs to know all about them! Having an appropriate knowledge of the signs and symptoms would not only help you—in case you would ever have a first-hand experience of it—but it would also enable you to reach out and help those who are suffering from it.
Weight Loss and a Change in Appetite
A person with depression would often have little to no appetite at all. Of course, you should not assume that everyone you know who underwent weight loss is suffering from it. Also some people may eat more or gain weight because of depression.
Not every person who has a change in their weight and diet has depression and there may be a perfectly plausible reason for this change. Someone with depression would also experience other underlying symptoms besides just change in weight. If they happen to be exhibiting more than one of the indicators of depression, then you might want to ask if they need support.
Irritable Mood and Restlessness
It is normal for people to experience stress and pressure at work, so there are times when you may notice someone getting irritable due to the consistent amount of tasks in the office. There is nothing wrong with that, as the situation calls for a natural reaction. However, if the person’s irritability and restlessness seem out of place, manifesting even within an average non-stressful day, then it may be one of the signs of depression.
This can be attributed to anxiety as well, often coexisting with depression.
Hopelessness and Guilt
We all have our gloomy days; that’s just a fact of life. Not everything would go our way, and we can’t win it all. People will always experience failures and sadness and life. With that being said, how would you pick out a legitimately depressed person from a crowd of people who are just going through a bad day?
There is actually no definite answer to this. Out of all the signs and symptoms of depression, this one would have to be one of the most subtle! The most reliable indicator would have to come from a family or a close friend. If you experience that a person feels this way more often than not or increasing feels hopeless, that may be a cause for concern. A sudden shift in mood, self-blaming habits, or a change in personality would usually accompany this symptom, so if you feel that something’s not right about a certain person, ask if they need support or if appropriate reach out to their closest friends or family.
Conclusion
These signs and symptoms are just three common indicators of depression. There are actually a lot more than these and there are certain criteria that distinguish an actual diagnosis of depression, which can be explored by your physician or mental health provider. If you were to encounter someone showing these warning signs and more, do not hesitate to reach out and lend a listening ear. Better yet, let them know that there will always be someone to help them. Point them towards professional help and brighten up their day with a smile and a conversation.
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