Nothing like the usual blues, depression is one of the most misunderstood mental disorders that consistently triggers the feelings of hopelessness and sadness. It can massively affect one’s routine life and lead to a lot of emotional as well as physical problems. Since it doesn’t function like the usual spectrum of moods, depression can be hard to diagnose. This could either be because the changes are subtle, or the person might not be ready to acknowledge the variation due to the stigma. Therefore, to help yourself or your loved ones, you should be aware about the symptoms of depression.

• Loss of interest – Of late, a person would have seriously lost enthusiasm for things that they usually cared about. For instance, suddenly, they wouldn’t want to socialize with friends and choose to stay at home. Moreover, they have stopped pursuing their hobbies or interests.
• Lack of energy – A person dealing with depression might even find small tasks as cumbersome. This could include daily things like taking a shower, cooking, doing the laundry, etc.
• Change in appetite – The patient could either lose their appetite or unexpectedly have amplified cravings for food. Both the cases can negatively influence a person’s weight and overall health.
• Chronic pain – The mental state can often affect how the body feels too. Depression can lead to bouts of chronic pain which varies from person to person. For some, it could be headaches, constant tension in the shoulders or neck, while for some, it could be discomfort in the chest, stomach, back, etc.
• Change in sleeping patterns – An individual could either be sleeping a lot or couldn’t be sleeping at all. Such shift often aggravates mood swings and loss of energy levels.
• Considering risky options – People with severe depression might be having dark thoughts associated to self-harm. Therefore, it is imperative to observe what they usually talk about.
• Anxiety – Depression might also be accompanied by anxiety, where the person is unhealthily obsessed with the outcome of their actions. This might lead them to overthink everything that they do.
• Mood swings – Depression can also cause extreme mood swings in a person, mostly associated with anger, increased irritability, guilt, and sorrow.
• Digestive problems – Being depressed for a very long time can also take a hit on the digestive system. It could include the onset of IBS or constipation which doesn’t seem to get better with treatment.
• Low concentration – Because the person is not able to focus on their work, relationships, or even on themselves, they might be prone to forgetfulness and indecisiveness on regular occasions.

If you notice any of these symptoms of depression, ensure that you seek professional assistance. In case, if you feel that you are not ready for medical intervention, please confide your feelings to close friends and family who can help you overcome this condition. Remember that depression is a widespread problem and that there is nothing be self-conscious about.

However, if your loved one is facing this disorder, handle them with patience and care. If they are reluctant about seeing a psychologist or therapist, then don’t rush them into it. The key is to be a good listener so that you understand their state of mind. With adequate support, self-love, and medication, depression can be treated effectively.