10 Most Common Symptoms of Depression
Depression is one of the most well-known mental health conditions and for good reason: one in six people will experience at least one depressive episode in their lifetime (Psychiatry.org, 2020). Although depression is a relatively common disorder, it should always be taken seriously due to the heightened risk of self-harm and suicidal ideation it brings its sufferers. Sometimes it can be hard to tell if you’re experiencing depression, grief, just a slump, or something in between. If you’ve been feeling sad lately, check out these ten common symptoms of depression.
Depression can look differently depending on the person and situation. Some common aspects that occur across cases include:
Loss of interest in or enjoyment of activities you once enjoyed.
This can look like dreading going out for your regular girls’ night, not feeling like engaging with your hobbies, or not getting the same happy feeling from working out that you once did.
Feeling sad or empty most of the time.
Feeling sad is normal. What’s not normal is feeling that way almost all the time. Depressed mood is perhaps the most easily recognisable symptom of depression.
Sleep changes.
Some people with depression have trouble sleeping and others find themselves sleeping too much. Changes in either direction suggest an underlying condition may be present.
Appetite changes.
Like changes in sleep, people with depression often cope with eating too much or find it hard to eat due to their depressed mood.
Difficulty making decisions and/or concentrating.
These cognitive changes, often called “brain fog” occur when your depressed mood makes it difficult to function as you’re used to.
Feeling worthless, guilty, or hopeless.
Feelings of hopelessness are one of the most concerning symptoms of depression because they can lead to suicidal ideation. If you feel like things will never get better or that you’re worthless as a person, it’s time to seek help.
Loss of energy or fatigue.
Depression can make you feel like you’re moving in slow motion or that everyday tasks like work and self-care are overwhelmingly difficult.
Restlessness and fidgeting or slowed movements and speech.
In yet another way depression manifests differently, the condition can make you feel restless or sluggish, and sometimes these conditions can alternate.
Mood swings.
Mood swings in depression tend to come on quickly and feel more intense than normal fluctuations in mood.
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Although almost everyone has experienced suicidal thoughts, if they’re paired with other symptoms from this list, depression is strongly indicated. If you’re experiencing distressing thoughts like this, reach out to a mental health professional right away.
Depression is a serious condition in and of itself, but it can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition - yet another reason to see a professional about your symptoms. The good news: depression is treatable! Medications like SSRIs are commonly prescribed to help balance the brain chemicals that go out of whack in depression, and talk therapy has been a proven, effective treatment for decades. In addition, most people find that 30 minutes of exercise a day helps lessen their symptoms of depression just as much as antidepressant medication! Your provider may recommend exercise and other lifestyle changes to help support your overall wellness.
Depression can make you feel like you’re all alone with your feelings when that can’t be further from the truth. If you identify with two or more of the symptoms above, we strongly suggest you consider reaching out for help. Looking for a quality therapist experienced in depression? Look no further than AWC. Give us a call today at (248) 413-5865 or send us a message through this website.
References
Psychiatry.org. (2020, October). What is depression?. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression
