Understanding the symptoms of depression
Taking control of the situation, with the help of medical experts, is key to avoiding the negative, downward spiral of depression.
Feeling down and losing interest or pleasure in daily activities or hobbies is quite normal now and then. When the blue mood persists for weeks, months, or even years, however, the reason may be more serious: depression.
In some cases, people are oblivious to what is actually going on, while others might hide these emotions successfully, at first, possibly because they are concerned about negative stigmas.
Taking control of the situation, with the help of medical experts, is key to avoiding the negative, downward spiral of depression.
The symptoms
Know which signs and symptoms to look out for in yourself or your loved ones and seek medical advice as soon as possible if you notice any of the following:
- Reduced interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Appetite and weight changes
- Changes in sleep habits
- Alcohol or drug use
- Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
- Loss of sexual desire
- Agitation and restlessness
- Slowed movement and speech
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or an attempt at suicide.
The art of healing
Breaking depression is very much possible and new research, published in the Psychiatry Journal, reveals that 39% of people who took part in the study experienced happiness and life satisfaction once again after ongoing treatment for their depression. Some compared their recovery to the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi – a beautiful technique used to repair broken objects by painting the repaired areas in gold, highlighting the imperfections, rather than hiding them.
Learn more about depression symptoms, diagnosis, causes and treatment on Our Mental Health, a website featuring professional insights and lifestyle advice for people living with depression and their caregivers.
