How To Tell If You May Have Depression: Signs And Symptoms
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Depression is a serious mental illness, and one of the most common worldwide. While a low mood is a key characteristic of depression, this disorder is distinct from feelings of sadness that most everyone will experience from time to time. Instead, clinical depression is characterized by persistent, often intense or overwhelming sadness along with several other specific symptoms that generally do not resolve without treatment. Read on to learn more about the most common signs and symptoms of depression so you can understand whether it may be time to seek support.
Types of depression
There are a few different, clinically recognized mental health conditions in which depression can manifest. They all generally have the same or similar symptoms, but they can have different triggers and/or durations.
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) applies to an individual who has experienced symptoms of depression that persist every day for two weeks or more. MDD can affect anyone, and statistics estimate that one in six adults will experience it in their lifetime.
- Persistent depression refers to when an individual experiences symptoms that last for over two years. They may be less severe than with MDD and/or may fluctuate over time, but their persistence can still make living with them difficult.
- Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that affects an individual only at certain times of year, usually during the seasons in which there’s less sunlight.
- Postpartum depression can affect a parent who has given birth, the partner of an individual who gave birth, or adoptive parents. It’s characterized by symptoms of depression that are triggered by bringing home a new baby.
Symptoms of depression
Frequently, depression affects multiple facets of an individual’s well-being, including their cognitive, emotional, and physical health. Depression symptoms can range from mild to severe and may be brought on by different situations or circumstances, as described above. That said, the list of symptoms themselves tends to be similar across the different types of this disorder. Here are some of the most common signs of depression to look out for:
- Feelings of emptiness or hopelessness
- Feelings of unworthiness or guilt
- A loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Decreased energy or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Significant changes in sleeping habits
- Significant changes in appetite
- Thoughts of death, self-harm, or suicide
There are several other signs that could indicate the presence of a depressive disorder. Many people with depression withdraw from loved ones and social situations. Isolation and loneliness are closely linked with several serious mental health challenges. Researchers have also found that social media use is connected with depression in adolescents and adults. Some individuals experience physical pain that they struggle to explain, while others live with serious cognitive impairments, such as memory loss.
It’s also worth noting that some symptoms of depression can vary depending on age. For example, children are more likely to be cranky, anxious, or pretend to be sick. Teenagers may sulk, get into trouble at school, and experience symptoms of concurrent disorders like substance use disorder or anxiety. Young adults can be irritable and have a negative outlook on life, and may also experience substance use issues or anxiety. Middle-aged adults are more likely to experience insomnia and decreased libido and often report gastrointestinal symptoms as well. Older adults are more likely to have concurrent health conditions that contribute to their depression and may report feeling numb rather than sad.
How depression is diagnosed
There are certain mental health conditions that may overlap with some symptoms of depression as well, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders. People with bipolar disorder, for example, may experience periods of depression alongside episodes of mania. That’s why getting evaluated by a mental health professional if you’re experiencing the symptoms above can be beneficial.
How depression is treated
While the symptoms of depression can present serious challenges, through proper mental health care, depressive disorders are highly treatable. Treatment for depression typically consists of some form of psychotherapy, sometimes in conjunction with medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common forms of talk therapy recommended for individuals experiencing depression. It’s based on the idea that core beliefs affect thoughts which in turn affect feelings and behaviors. People with depression are often prone to flawed core beliefs and thoughts, such as cognitive distortions. A cognitive behavioral therapist can work with these individuals to shift their negative thought patterns in a healthier direction and learn to develop positive coping mechanisms.
Connecting with a therapist for support
If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression and are interested in seeking the support of a therapist, options are available. For those who find it difficult to leave home to attend in-person sessions due to depression symptoms, online therapy can represent a viable alternative. With a virtual therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can get matched with a licensed therapist whom you can meet with via phone, video call, and/or in-app messaging to address the symptoms you may be experiencing. Research suggests that online therapy may actually be more beneficial than traditional, in-office sessions for the treatment of depression, so it may be worth considering if this format interests you.
Takeaway
What are the three 3 main symptoms of depression?
The three main symptoms of depression, often used to diagnose the condition, are often referred to as the "Depressive Triad." These symptoms include:
- Persistent Sad Mood: Individuals with depression typically experience a prolonged and persistent low mood characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness. This mood disturbance is present for most of the day, nearly every day, and often lasts for at least two weeks.
- Loss of Interest or Pleasure: A significant loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable is another key symptom. This loss of interest can extend to hobbies, work, social interactions, and other previously fulfilling aspects of life.
- Fatigue and Loss of Energy: Depression often leads to persistent fatigue and low energy levels. Individuals may feel physically and mentally exhausted, even after a full night's sleep. Simple tasks may become challenging due to this lack of energy.
How do I know if I have some form of depression?
Recognizing and identifying depression can be challenging, as the symptoms can vary from person to person and may be attributed to other factors. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, if you suspect that you may be experiencing depression or a depressive episode, here are some signs to watch for:
- Persistent Sadness or Low Mood: If you have been feeling persistently sad, down, or hopeless for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, it may be a sign of depression.
- Loss of Interest or Pleasure: If you've lost interest in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed and find it challenging to experience pleasure, this is a common symptom of depression.
- Fatigue and Low Energy: Feeling persistently tired or experiencing a lack of energy, even after a full night's sleep, can be a symptom of depression.
- Changes in Appetite and Weight: Depression can lead to changes in appetite, resulting in significant weight gain or loss.
- Sleep Disturbances: Sleep problems are common in depression, which can manifest as insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep) or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping).
- Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Experiencing excessive feelings of worthlessness or guilt is a common emotional symptom of depression.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Depression can affect your ability to think clearly and concentrate on tasks, making it challenging to complete even simple activities.
- Physical Symptoms: Some people with depression may experience physical symptoms, such as aches and pains, headaches, or digestive issues.
What counts as feeling depressed?
Feeling depressed typically refers to a persistent and pervasive emotional state characterized by profound sadness, hopelessness, or a sense of emptiness. It involves more than just temporary or occasional feelings of sadness that everyone experiences from time to time. In clinical terms, depression may be diagnosed when these feelings last for an extended period, such as at least two weeks, and significantly impact an individual's ability to function in their daily life.
Symptoms may often extend beyond low mood and can include a loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and, in severe cases, thoughts of death or suicide. Feeling depressed is a complex emotional and psychological state, and it's important to seek help from a healthcare professional if these symptoms persist or significantly affect your well-being, as depression is a treatable condition with various effective interventions available.
Is it hard to identify depression?
Knowing how to tell if you’re depressed can be challenging for several reasons:
- Varied Symptoms: Depression can manifest differently in different individuals. While some people may experience the classic symptoms of persistent low mood, loss of interest, and feelings of hopelessness, others may primarily exhibit physical symptoms, irritability, or changes in behavior.
- Stigma: Social stigma surrounding mental health issues can make it difficult for individuals to recognize and acknowledge their own depression. This stigma may lead to feelings of shame or reluctance to seek help.
- Denial: Some people may deny or downplay their feelings, attributing them to temporary stress or a "bad mood," which can delay seeking appropriate treatment.
- Co-Existing Conditions: Depression often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, making it more complex to diagnose.
- Physical Symptoms: Depression can manifest as physical symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches, or digestive issues, which may be attributed to other causes.
- Lack of Awareness: Some individuals may not be aware of the symptoms of depression or may not recognize them as indicators of a mental health condition.
- High-Functioning Depression: Some individuals with depression may continue to function in their daily lives, making it less obvious to themselves and others.
What did depression look like for you?
Depression can manifest differently from person to person, and the specific symptoms and their severity can vary widely. According to the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention, some common ways in which depression can look or feel for an individual include:
- Persistent Sadness: A person with depression often experiences a pervasive and prolonged low mood, which can feel like a persistent cloud of sadness or hopelessness hanging over them.
- Loss of Interest: A significant loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable, including hobbies, social interactions, and work, can be a hallmark sign of depression.
- Fatigue and Low Energy: People with depression frequently report feeling exhausted or lacking energy, even after a full night's sleep. Simple tasks may become challenging due to this lack of energy.
- Changes in Appetite and Weight: Depression can lead to changes in appetite, resulting in significant weight gain or loss. Some individuals may lose their appetite, while others may overeat as a way of coping with their emotions.
- Sleep Disturbances: Sleep problems are common in depression, manifesting as insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep) or hypersomnia (excessive sleep).
- Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Individuals with depression may experience persistent feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-criticism.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Depression can affect an individual's ability to think clearly, concentrate on tasks, and make decisions.
- Physical Symptoms: Some people with depression may experience physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, or muscle pain.
- Withdrawal from Social Activities: Isolation and withdrawal from social interactions are common in depression. Individuals may become socially withdrawn or avoid contact with friends and loved ones.
- Thoughts of Death or Suicide: In severe cases of depression or a major depressive episode, individuals may have thoughts of death or suicide. These thoughts should be taken very seriously and require immediate professional intervention.
If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached at 988 and is available 24/7.
How do you know if someone is sad by their eyes?
It can be challenging to determine if someone is sad solely by looking at their eyes, as emotions are complex and influenced by various factors. However, there are some subtle signs and cues that may indicate sadness in a person's eyes:
- Tearfulness: Tears are a common sign of sadness. If a person's eyes appear watery or if they are visibly wiping away tears, it's a strong indicator of sadness.
- Drooping Eyelids: Sadness can sometimes lead to a drooping or heavy appearance of the eyelids. The eyes may appear less open or expressive.
- Redness and Swelling: In some cases, sadness can cause redness and swelling of the eyes, particularly if the person has been crying.
- Lack of Eye Contact: When someone is sad, they may avoid making direct eye contact with others. Their gaze may appear distant or downcast.
- Puffy Eyes: Puffiness around the eyes, often caused by crying or a lack of sleep due to sadness, can be a visual sign of distress.
- Expression in the Eyes: While it may not be easy to pinpoint sadness just by looking at the eyes, a person's overall facial expression can provide context. Sadness may be accompanied by a somber or pained expression, and the eyes may appear downcast or lack their usual brightness.
What do depressed people usually say?
Individuals who experience depression may express their feelings and thoughts in various ways, and what they say can vary widely depending on their individual experiences and the severity of their depression. Some common themes in what depressed people may say include:
- Expressions of Sadness: Depressed individuals often convey a deep and persistent sadness. They may use words like "I feel so sad," "I can't stop crying," or "I'm overwhelmed by a heavy feeling of sadness."
- Loss of Interest: A common refrain is a loss of interest in activities and life in general. They might say, "I don't enjoy anything anymore," "I can't find pleasure in anything," or "Nothing feels worth doing."
- Feelings of Hopelessness: Depressed individuals may express a sense of hopelessness about their situation and the future. They might say, "I don't see things getting better," "I feel stuck," or "There's no point in trying."
- Low Self-Esteem: Many people with depression experience low self-esteem or self-worth, and they may say things like, "I'm worthless," "I'm a burden to others," or "I'm a failure."
- Physical Symptoms: Depression can manifest with physical symptoms, and individuals may mention these, such as "I have no energy," "I can't sleep," or "I have constant headaches."
- Social Isolation: Depressed individuals may express a desire to withdraw from social interactions. They might say, "I don't want to see anyone," "I feel alone," or "I'm isolating myself."
- Suicidal Thoughts: In cases of severe depression, some individuals may express thoughts of death or a desire to attempt suicide. They might say, "I wish I were dead," "I can't go on like this," or "I'm thinking about ending my life." It's crucial to take these statements seriously and seek immediate help in such cases.
If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached at 988 and is available 24/7.
What is slight depression called?
"Slight depression" is not a formal clinical term used in psychiatric diagnoses. However, you might be referring to a condition often referred to as "mild depression" or "subclinical depression." This condition describes a milder form of depression that falls below the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder but still involves some depressive symptoms and a degree of distress or impairment in daily functioning.
Mild depression may include symptoms like occasional low mood, decreased interest in activities, feelings of sadness, and mild sleep or appetite disturbances. It doesn't necessarily reach the intensity or duration required for a clinical diagnosis of major depression.
While mild depression is not considered a formal diagnosis, it's still important to address and seek support for these symptoms. Mild depression can impact a person's quality of life and well-being, and early intervention, lifestyle changes, or self-care strategies can help prevent it from worsening. If you or one of your friends or family members experiencing symptoms of mild depression, you may seek treatment or emotional support from a healthcare provider or mental health professional.
What are the symptoms of a mental breakdown?
A mental breakdown, also known as a nervous breakdown or emotional breakdown, is not a clinical diagnosis but rather a colloquial term used to describe a severe and distressing period of mental and emotional distress. The symptoms associated with a mental breakdown can vary widely among individuals, but some common signs may include:
- Overwhelming Stress: A sudden and intense feeling of being unable to cope with stress, which may lead to emotional distress and anxiety.
- Severe Anxiety or Panic Attacks:Symptoms can include rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, trembling, and intense fear or dread.
- Intense Emotions: Feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions, such as sadness, anger, frustration, or despair.
- Depersonalization or Derealization: Feeling detached from oneself or the surrounding environment.
- Physical Symptoms: Experiencing physical symptoms such as headaches, gastrointestinal distress, or muscle tension due to the stress.
- Fatigue and Exhaustion: Feeling mentally and physically drained, often accompanied by difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
- Withdrawal: Isolating oneself from social interactions and responsibilities.
- Inability to Concentrate: Difficulty focusing on tasks or making decisions.
- Crying Spells: Frequent crying without an apparent trigger.
- Loss of Interest: A marked loss of interest in activities and hobbies that were once enjoyable.
Can people self diagnose depression?
While individuals can recognize symptoms and signs of depression in themselves, it's important to note that self-diagnosing depression is not a substitute for a formal clinical diagnosis by a healthcare professional or mental health provider who can provide you with depression treatment. Self-diagnosis can be helpful as a first step in acknowledging that something may be wrong, but it should not be used as a definitive or sole method of determining the presence of depression.
There are a few reasons why self-diagnosis may not be reliable or accurate:
- Variability of Symptoms: Symptoms of depression can vary widely among individuals and may overlap with other mental health conditions. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, a formal diagnosis considers the specific criteria outlined in diagnostic manuals, such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
- Co-Occurring Conditions: Some individuals may have multiple mental health conditions at the same time, making it more challenging to self-diagnose.
- Severity: Depression can range from mild to severe, and the level of impairment it causes can vary. A mental health professional can assess the severity of symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment or antidepressant medication.
- Biases and Misinterpretation: Personal biases, misconceptions, or a lack of expertise in mental health can lead to inaccurate self-diagnosis.
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