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Do You Know the 7 Warning Signs of Depression?
Depression has become a common word in our everyday dialect. Few only know the real definition of the meaning of depression. If you have ever seen or experienced depression, you know how different depression is from what is described in the movies. Knowing about depression is the first step towards diagnosis and treatment. That is why it is beneficial to know these 7 warning signs:
1) Sleep
Each one of us knows how much time we need to sleep. On average, a person can get sufficient rest with 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Based on your sleeping history, this can change. Individuals experiencing depression may notice a change in their sleeping habits.
The drastic increase or decrease of sleep is one of the symptoms of depression. The change in sleep is manifested either with Insomnia or hypersomnia. Insomnia is the inability to staying asleep or difficulty falling asleep. On contrast, hypersomnia is the excessive amount of sleep.
2) Interest (loss of)
Another symptom of depression is anhedonia. The definition of anhedonia is the inability to experience pleasure from activities formerly found enjoyable. The key point here is to understand that the person used to enjoy such activities and now they don’t. Examples of those activities may include going out with friends, sex, or hobbies.
3) Guilt (worthless)
Depressed individuals may feel a self of rational or irrational blame. The self blame is usually based on worthlessness. For example, a depressed person goes out with friends. Their friends expressed that they are not enjoying themselves as much as planned. The depressed individual may start blaming themselves for that circumstance. This self-blame can be generalized to many petty situations.
4) Energy (lack of)
During your day, we can all feel tired at some point or another. With depression the feeling is beyond what we experience. It is best described as a constant state of fatigue. The lack of energy can affect their daily routine. Chores become difficult and are postponed. The energy and interest in maintaining good hygiene may be affected. In tandem with anhedonia, their libido may decrease.
5) Concentration
Being able to concentrate is the ability to cognitively focus on a task. With depression, individuals may have a hard time concentrating. They may lack the ability to focus and maintain a conversation. If you speak to them, you may need to repeat yourself a few times. Watching television or reading may be impossible or unpleasing due to the inability to follow the flow of information.
6) Appetite (weight Loss)
Another sign of depression is the unintended weight loss or weight gain. With depression, people may try to cope with food. Their coping behaviors may lead to an increase in food consumption. Which, consequently, those actions will lead to weight gain. In contrast, their lack of energy or interest may lead to a decrease in eating. This will also lead to weight loss.
The most important sign is the unplanned/unintended change of weight in a short period of time.
7) Psychomotor
The final sign is psychomotor movement. The movement in question is the person’s movement or speech. A depressed person may move slower than their regular speed. Additionally, they may speak at a slower rate. This lethargic tone is due to the lack of concentration and energy. This sign is best described as numbness in emotion and movement.
Bonus Tip: Suicide
I know I said 7 warning signs, but this is the most dangerous symptom. Suicidal thoughts are at times associated with major depressive disorders. While it may be hard to see light at the end of the tunnel, there is always a solution to any problem. It is important to separate and distance thoughts from action. Avoid alcohol or drugs. Most importantly do not keep these thoughts to yourself. Talking to someone will help you find hope and help you release any undue pressure placed on yourself.
So What Now?
Go over the early warning signs again to help determine if you or someone you love may be experiencing depression. The best way to remember these warning signs is by using the mnemonic SIGECAPS. (S)leep; (I)nterest; (G)uilt; (E)nergy; (C)oncentration; (A)ppetite; (P)sychomotor; (S) suicide. [By the way if you need more tips to improve your memory, listen to episode 2 of the Psychbits podcast.]
If anything seems to describe yourself or someone you love, seek professional help immediately. Remember, take the necessary steps to start living the life you were meant to live – a healthy and happy one!
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About Me
Hi! My name is Roberto Montanez. I have always been curious about the way we do things and how we react to different situations. Even the most mundane things in our lives, I find interesting.
I have a M.S. in Psychology and have worked for a few years in the field of psychology and education. Working with people in the clinical setting and in the classroom has helped me gain a unique view about our world. More >>
Hello Roberto,
I know I sound like a broken record – but, your articles are so enjoyable to read and I appreciate the wide scope of subjects you cover.
I think there needs to be more focus on issues such as depression – though we have come a long way as to “acceptance” of those dealing with depression, the stigma still exists to some extent and, therefore, makes it so difficult for people to be honest with their friends/family to talk about what they are enduring.
Peppy
Check Peppy | The PeppyWrites Chronicles latest post…You Said Hello – Now What