Beyond the Blues: Spot Depression Warning Signs Early

Posted by kinderinthekeys on September 4th, 2019

Depression could alter one's life. Before things get worse, intervention is necessary, and that's only possible if the warning signs are identified early on. Below are the symptoms to watch out for.

 Sadness You Can't Shake Off

We all feel the blues from time to time. It's totally normal, especially after an unfortunate and disappointing life event, like the absence of a loved one, financial trouble, and issues at home. As with other human emotions, sadness is fleeting. A good cry, an afternoon spent with a friend, or a call from your mom can usually lift the cloud hanging over your shoulder. Before you know it, you're genuinely smiling again.

But what if loneliness lingers and you can't explain why? What if the feelings of emptiness and hopelessness won't go away for weeks? Then, maybe what you're experiencing is beyond the blues. Extreme sadness that lasts for a long period could be a sign of depression. Too often, people struggle to tell the difference between the two.

Usually, one knows why they're upset. They can pinpoint the specific life events that trigger the sudden change of emotion or mood. More importantly, they can bounce back and live their normal lives shortly after unpleasant experiences.

Depression, on the other hand, could look like this: you're constantly sad about everything, with or without any triggering event. Suddenly, you don't find anything enjoyable, interesting, and important anymore. Since this mental health condition saps your motivation, energy, and ability to feel pleasure and excitement, it gets in the way of you living your life the way you used to or want to.

Learning the difference between depression and unhappiness is crucial. One good way to do so is, if you've been feeling persistent sadness for more than two weeks, reach out for help. Contact major depressive disorder treatment facilities in your area.

Appetite and Weight Change

During trying times, some people eat more while others lose their appetite entirely without being aware of it. This is why people with depression usually experience unintentional and dramatic weight changes.

Excessive Sleeping

A good night's slumber is often enough to help one recharge for the next day. But depressed individuals can still feel tired and sleepy even after a restful night, which results in excessive sleeping.

Depression, if left untreated, could significantly affect the patients' lives and those of around them, and lead to more serious disorders and alarming thoughts about death. If you've been experiencing the symptoms above for a long period of time, seek medical assistance. Know that the doors at major depressive disorder treatment facilities are always open to help you.