Aspect of Signs and Symptoms of Depression

Added: (Wed Mar 03 2010)

Pressbox (Press Release) - Everyone feels down at a certain point in life. However, when loneliness and despair take control of your life, it could signal the onset of depression. Depression is much more than just ordinary ‘blues’. It removes the enjoyment and fun out of life.



Depressed individuals are not interested in hobbies and friends. Exhaustion is another common symptom, and the entire day can get overwhelming. Understanding depression is the first step in curing it.



The struggles and setbacks of life will inevitably lead to sadness. However, depression comprises of more than just sadness. Depressed people treat life as a black hole. Besides sadness, feelings of lifelessness, emptiness, and apathy are common.



Depression disrupts the normal routine of life. It interferes with normal eating and sleeping habits.



The following are some of the signs and symptoms of depression:



• Irregular sleep
• Inability to concentrate
• Easy tasks become difficult
• Feelings of despair and helplessness
• Negative and pessimistic thinking
• Loss of appetite
• Feelings of irritability and short-temper
• Feelings of worthlessness



Helplessness and despair: A bleak outlook toward life is a characteristic of depression. Loss of hope and lack of belief that things will get better are common thoughts.



Loss of interest in life: Hobbies and social activities take a backseat. The ability to enjoy and feel pleasure is also hampered.



Changes in appetite: Depression can lead to weight loss or weight gain. More than 5% of body weight can be affected in a month.



Changes in sleep patterns: Depression causes insomnia and, conversely, hypersomnia, which refers to excessive sleep.



Irritability: Getting agitated is common across depressed individuals. The tolerance level is now as the nerves get weak.



Exhaustion: Getting fatigued and tired is common. Simple tasks may seem like a burden.



Sense of worthlessness: A pessimistic approach and worthlessness go hand in hand. Self criticism is another way of pessimistic thinking.



Aches and pains: Headaches, back pain and stomachaches are mostly reported by those suffering from depression.



Depressed individuals are at an increased risk for suicide. The despair makes suicide appear as a viable option. Careful attention must be paid to any talk of suicide. Behavior, too, needs to be monitored. Suicide is more than just a warning sign. It is a cry for help.



Warnings for suicidal tendencies:



• Talking about harming oneself
• Strong sense of hopelessness
• Fascination with death or concept of dying
• Reckless behavior
• Saying goodbye to people
• Giving away possessions