5 Signs of Depression You Should Know

Have you ever had concerns that you may be experiencing signs of depression? This is a difficult topic to navigate, and it’s often hard to discuss. Before thinking that depression could never occur in your life, understand that this common mental health issue does not discriminate.

Understanding the Signs of Depression

Depression can affect anyone, regardless of their age, education, race, or economic status. Depression exists in an estimated 6.7% of adults (National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH], 2015), and it most commonly occurs in women and individuals between the ages of 18-25 (NIMH, 2015).

Depression is different for each person. The origins of depression will vary depending on your family history, and it can also occur after certain situations in your life.

How do you know if what you are feeling might be depression? An overwhelming sense of sadness can be a common characteristic, but depression doesn’t look the same for everyone.

It’s important to understand all the possible signs of depression, as some of them are less noticeable than others. Your friends and family, who know you best, might also be able to help you identify some of the signs.

Depression is a specific mental health concern. Though it’s important to seek a proper diagnosis and medical care if you suspect you are experiencing depression, the following signs of depression may be some you identify with.

If so, we encourage you to reach out for assistance and resources. As you read, keep in mind that symptoms and signs of depression are not usually isolated. Without proper help, symptoms begin to affect all areas of your life.

Common Signs of Depression in Adults

1. You may experience changes in your emotions.

This is one of the most noticeable, early signs of depression. You might have mood swings, increased feelings of stress, anxiety, and restlessness. Sudden and increased dips of sadness or anger may lead to outbursts.

Feelings of guilt may also begin interfering with your thoughts and actions. Hopelessness and just generally thinking badly about your self-worth can be signs you have depression. You may have thoughts of death or dying. You may also have spells of crying without understanding why.

2. You may lose interest in activities and hobbies.

Things you were once passionate about may start to overwhelm you. You may struggle with lack of motivation or setting and meeting goals. Your work ethic may suffer as you begin to not care about your work as much as you once did. Your ability to concentrate may cause you not to have the energy to continue with projects.

Relationships may seem to require too much from you, and this can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed and withdrawing from social activities. Your friends and family may notice that you don’t engage in the things you once loved, choosing instead to be alone.

3. You may experience changes in your weight.

In times of stress, it’s common for individuals to have changes in their appetites and eating habits. It’s very likely that depression will change your appetite, and this can result in weight loss or weight gain.

While some people suffering from depression eat more, others may eat less or have no appetite at all. Maintaining a healthy weight is often a challenge for those with depression.

4. You may notice changes in your sleeping patterns.

Struggling to fall asleep, your mind may race with unending thoughts and concerns. Your sleep might be restless and interrupted. With this negative impact on your sleep, a lack of energy during the day most likely will be noticed.

Additionally, depression can cause you to feel exhausted all of the time, and you may want to sleep much more than you normally would. Continuing to need long naps, or choosing to sleep instead of participating in activities or necessary everyday duties may be a sign of depression.

5. You may notice changes in your body.

Individuals with depression often have an increase in headaches. Digestive issues are also a common symptom, leading to stomach pain. Your mind might also be affected by slowed cognition.

You might feel ‘out of it’ going through your daily routine. Not as sharp and on top of what’s going on around you, your mind may seem foggy. Even your memory can be affected negatively by depression. Frequently forgetting things, small and large, can become a problem.

Christian Counseling Can Help You

If you have concerns that you may be experiencing symptoms of depression, it’s vital that you seek treatment to identify the underlying causes. Our counselors at Culver City Christian Counseling are able to assist you in your struggle with depression. Together we can help you regain your mental health and enjoy your life once again.