It’s not uncommon to feel sad, discontented, or even hopeless. But at what point are those dark feelings signs of depression? You may have family and friends who struggle with clinical depression or other mental health conditions, but it may be hard to recognize symptoms of depression in yourself. In this blog article, we’ll discuss five common signs of depressive disorder, signals that may help you recognize your own depression.
1. Difficulty experiencing joy or connection.
Have daily activities lost their zest? Do the usual social activities no longer interest you? Do your normal hobbies seem boring or worthless? If this is the case, you may be struggling with clinical depression. When dealing with depression, normal everyday life and tasks can feel like it takes so much effort. l.
2. Persistent irritability and moodiness.
If you find yourself snapping at others more than usual, depression may be the culprit. Stressful events that you may have navigated just fine before, may lead to your mood flying all over the radar now. Living with a mental illness can wreak havoc on our emotions, leaving us raging hellions one moment and a sobbing mess the next. Exhausting? Absolutely, which leads us to…
3. Lack of energy or difficulty getting out of bed.
Many people who struggle with depressive disorder find themselves in bed more often, fatigued beyond belief. Others struggle with insomnia. If you find yourself struggling with the motivation to start the day, depression may be the culprit.
4. Weight and appetite fluctuations.
Many types of depression, including postpartum depression, major depression, persistent depressive disorder,bipolar disorder and others can cause weight gain or weight loss. A depressed person may find themselves anywhere from lacking an appetite to binge eating needlessly. Sleep struggles and hunger cues are tied, so if you find yourself sleepless and with a wonky appetite, you may be struggling with a depressive disorder.
5. Your outlook on life is bleak or nonexistent
Lastly, a common sign of depression is a poor outlook on your life. Feelings of guilt, thoughts of suicide, unrelenting hopelessness and worthlessness are all symptoms of depression and are a signal to you to reach out to a mental health professional. In particular, if you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
More than 17 million people in the US struggle with depression, so don’t ever feel ashamed or alone if you believe you’re dealing with it. Remind yourself that depression is a very real medical condition. Don’t sell yourself short by thinking that you’re not “trying hard enough” to be happy or deal with your symptoms. By taking the steps to treat your depression, whether through therapy, prescribed medication, or both, you’re taking the incredible step towards better mental health and, overall, a better you. It might seem corny to say, but self care really isn’t selfish. You deserve it more than you know.
If you’re ready to take that step towards a better life and are a resident of Florida, please reach out to me for a free 15 minute consultation. Together, we can discuss what your struggles are and how we can begin conquering them.
Dr. Lindsay Howard, Psychologist, Psy.D.
Hi! My name is Lindsay Howard, and provide therapy for depression for those living in Parkland, FL and all residents of Florida. Learn more about how I can help you treat your depression by clicking below, or feel free to schedule a free 15 minute consultation today.
