15 Signs of Depression | What You MUST Know

Ever wonder if you have depression or are you confused about what depression is? How do you recognize depression? Let’s dive deeper into understand some telltale signs and how you, or someone you love, can get the help needed to thrive once more.

Depression is more than just feeling sad or down for a few days. It’s a serious mental health condition that can affect every aspect of life. Whether you’re personally struggling or are concerned about a loved one, recognizing the signs of depression is crucial for seeking timely treatment. In this post, we’ll discuss 15 common signs of depression, backed by research, to help you understand when it’s time to take action.

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1. Persistent Sadness or Low Mood

Feeling sad from time to time is normal, but if this feeling persists for more than two weeks, it could be a sign of depression. The sadness often feels overwhelming and doesn’t improve with time

2. Loss of Interest in Activities

People with depression may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. Hobbies, socializing, or even basic self-care might feel too challenging or pointless.

3. Fatigue or Low Energy

Depression can drain your energy, making even simple tasks feel exhausting. You may feel physically tired, even after a good night’s sleep.

4. Changes in Sleep Patterns

Insomnia or sleeping too much are both signs of depression. You might struggle to fall asleep, wake up frequently, or sleep for long hours without feeling rested.

5. Difficulty Concentrating

Concentration and memory problems are common in depression. You might find it hard to focus at work, remember details, or make decisions.

6. Feelings of Guilt or Worthlessness

Feelings of guilt or worthlessness often accompany depression. You might blame yourself for things beyond your control or feel like a burden to others.

7. Changes in Appetite or Weight

Depression can lead to changes in appetite, causing weight gain or loss. Some people may eat too much for comfort, while others lose interest in food altogether.

8. Irritability

People with depression often feel irritable or agitated. Small things that wouldn’t usually bother you can seem overwhelming, and you might lash out at others.

9. Physical Aches and Pains

Headaches, back pain, and digestive issues are often linked to depression. These physical symptoms can occur without any other medical cause.

10. Thoughts of Death or Suicide

One of the most serious signs of depression is recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately or call the National Suicide Hotline Number (call or text) 988.

11. Social Withdrawal

Avoiding social interactions, even with close friends and family, is a common symptom of depression. People may isolate themselves to avoid feeling like a burden or because they lack the energy to engage.

12. Anxiety

While depression and anxiety are distinct conditions, they often occur together. You may feel excessively worried or experience panic attacks along with feelings of sadness.

13. Hopelessness

Depression often brings about feelings of hopelessness. You might feel like nothing will ever get better, leading to a sense of despair and helplessness.

14. Lack of Motivation

People with depression often find it difficult to get motivated. This lack of drive can affect all areas of life, from personal goals to work performance.

15. Self-Harm

Some individuals with depression may engage in self-harming behaviors as a way to cope with overwhelming feelings. Self-harm is a serious sign of distress and requires immediate attention.

What’s the Next Step?

Depression can make you feel isolated, but you are not alone. By understanding the signs and seeking help early, recovery is possible. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t wait—reach out to Innerwell today so you can be one step closer to symptom relief with Ketamine therapy.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.

Gotlib, I. H., & Hammen, C. L. (Eds.). (2014). Handbook of depression (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press.

World Health Organization. (2017). Depression and other common mental disorders: Global health estimates. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression