Women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression, according to The US Department of Health and Human Services. Depression, as defined by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Depression is a common but serious mood disorder that can interfere with your ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy life. These are the signs to look for if you think you or a loved one may be suffering from depression.
Signs
As we described in a previous article, there are warning signs to look out for:
- Loss of interest – This can include diminished sex drive and disinterest in favorite foods or hobbies, and is one of the main symptoms of depression, according to Faith Bryie Ph.D.
- Fatigue – Maurizio Fava, MD, describes three distinct categories of fatigue in depression: physical (low energy, weakness, and sluggishness), cognitive (decreased concentration, slower thinking), and emotional (apathy, boredom and lack of motivation).
- Changes in appetite – This could be a loss of appetite, maybe from loss of interest and fatigue, according to Chris Iliades, MD. It could also manifest as increased emotional eating of comfort food, according to Jennifer Pells, Ph.D.
- Negative thoughts – These include sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or emptiness. These feelings might be a symptom of depression if they are persistent, all-encompassing, or long-lasting, according to the American Psychiatric Association.
Symptoms
As Partha Nandi, M.D., F.A.C.P says in his article on depression, “there are ways your body tells you that you’re dealing with depression versus feeling a little down in the dumps.”
- Prolonged sadness – Everyone feels sad. But if your sadness is lingering and intensifying over time to the point of becoming overwhelming, you may be suffering from depression.
- Hopelessness – If it’s not just one thing bumming you out, but everything that makes you feel like life is pointless, you’re probably experiencing depression.
- Suffering relationships – Depression can cause you to withdraw from your loved ones. Neglecting or pushing away your friends and family is a bad sign.
- Suicidal thoughts – Depression can be overwhelming and make you feel like relief is impossible except through hurting yourself or ending your life. But depression can be overcome. If you are having suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately.
Physical Changes
The body of someone suffering from depression can undergo serious negative changes:
- Concentration – Depressed individuals may suffer from a concentration deficit, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
- Digestion – Depression can cause cramps or digestive problems without a clear physical cause, according to the NIMH.
- Disrupted sleep cycle – According to the NIMH, people with depression may not be able to sleep, sleep too much, or wake up too early
- Heart disease – People suffering from depression have been shown to have increased risk of cardiovascular disease, according to Leo Pozuelo, MD.
Sources:
National institute of mental health
US Department of Health and Human Services
Fatigue as a Residual Symptom of Depression
Anxiety and Overeating – What’s the Overlap?
Depression’s Effect on Your Appetite
The Psychiatric Review of Symptoms: A Screening Tool for Family Physicians
The Psychiatric Review of Symptoms: A Screening Tool for Family Physicians
