7 Signs of Depression You Should Never Ignore

We all find ourselves feeling down from time to time, thanks to all the ways life can go sideways.
But depressive disorders, such as major depressive disorder or persistent depressive disorder, are more than just “the blues”. Depression affects how you function in your daily life, from what you eat to how (and if) you sleep. Left untreated, it can become a major health problem.

Luckily, depression is treatable once it is diagnosed. Recognizing the signs of depression is the first step to overcoming the problem and feeling much better. You may experience several of the following symptoms.

7 Warning Signs of Depression

• Changes in appetite – Whether you experience significant weight loss OR gain, if it’s more than 5% in a month, it’s a sign that something isn’t right.
• Sleep changes – Some people find that they sleep all the time when they are depressed, while others are burning the midnight oil, unable to sleep or waking in the early hours. All that excessive fatigue can lead to a loss of interest in what you used to love about your daily life.
• Hopelessness, sadness – When you feel that there’s very little to look forward to, or that everything feels like a huge effort, it can be a sign of depression. If these feelings of sadness last more than two years, it becomes persistent depressive disorder.
• Difficulty focusing – Thanks to that numb, hopeless feeling in your body, it’s hard to come out of the fog and focus on everyday tasks. Unfortunately, this lack of focus can lead to withdrawal from your daily activities and loved ones.
• Physical pain – Body pains and cramps are very common with depression. Your body is tense and your muscles are often contracted. Digestive problems are also often reported, as there is a proven connection between our mental health and our gut health.
• Loss of interest in hobbies or other pleasurable activities – When you no longer find that your previously loved hobbies provide you with distraction and pleasure, it’s a sign you shouldn’t ignore.
• Anxiety – Anxiety is a feeling of impending doom, even when there is no danger, and it is quite common in patients with depression. Research shows that about 90% of all depression sufferers also experience symptoms of anxiety.

There is Hope

Depression is not a life sentence. If you are experiencing signs of depression like the ones listed above, reach out to your healthcare professional. An understanding counsellor can help you cope with what you are going through, suggesting strategies and self-care techniques.

Reach out to Lynn Valley Counselling today and let us help you without judgment.