Depression is a sensitive topic. There are major physical and mental differences between being depressed and being unhappy and unlike unhappiness, depression is a well-known health disorder that is extremely complicated. There are symptoms that can be identified which help to identify the difference between depression and general unhappiness. Being able to identify these symptoms that can eat you up alive on the inside can just be the start to help the recovery process and if you identify them in someone else, it may be worth consulting them to seek professional mental health help.
Sense of Worthlessness
One of the most common signs that a person may be experiencing major depression is through their general outlook on life. They begin to have negative thoughts and ideologies of the world around them almost as if they feel helpless. You’d probably identify this more easily through someone that you’re close to as you’re more likely to recognise this through their change in behaviour or how they speak about themselves. They may start to show signs of self-hate and negatively commenting on what they do on a day to day basis.
Lack of Enjoyment
There may be regular activities that the person once used to engage in, but you may notice that what they once used to enjoy for a while is now something they no longer do. Depression can be a cause of this and something that someone once really enjoyed doing is no longer part of their hobby. This can sometimes be easy to identify, especially if the person was extremely passionate about the hobby and topic and used to discuss it regularly.
Consistent Fatigue and Lack Of Sleep
Lost interest in activities that the individual once used to engage in may be down to the fact that they are feeling tired often. When experiencing depression, the individual may experience a lack of energy and show signs of sluggishness. You may find that this causes the person to sleep more regularly because depression can also lead to sleeping problems. They can link with each other causing each it to become worse and more evident. Being tired can also lead to a feeling of loneliness, which often results in furthering your depression.
Appetite Change
Excessive eating or eating less can also be a common sign of depression. It can be different depending on the individual. Some will choose to eat more and increase their appetite, while others may not feel hungry and as a result, lose weight. Sometimes, a change in appetite may also not be intentional and it is naturally caused by depression.
Suicidal Thoughts
Suicidal thoughts are one of the common symptoms of depression. According to the Mental Health Foundation, in 2016 over 5,500 suicides were recorded in Great Britain alone. There can tell tale signs if people are feeling suicidal thoughts as they’ll mention or discuss it beforehand. Alternatively, if not verbally, they’ll physically attempt a suicide before ending their life. If you know someone who may be in this position it’s important to act on it and be safe rather than sorry. Consider the following:
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Call a local emergency number
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Remove any items that may cause further harm to the person
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Stay with them
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Listen to them and be an open ear for them to communicate their thoughts
There are several people that depression affects, even if the signs aren’t that noticeable. Considering these factors can help you to identify whether someone is experiencing depression and there is advice and health supplements available to help tackle it. Be sure that the person takes the correct steps to ensure their recovery and potentially save their life.