Everyone feels sad or down from time to time, especially when certain situations such as divorce, death, or loss of a relationship or job trigger a difficult period in our lives. However, ongoing sadness that causes difficulty in daily functioning, health, and relationships is not normal. It is important to know the signs of depression and seek help if you think you may be suffering from depression. If you are having difficulty bouncing back from a difficult life event or if you just feel like you have no reason to be happy anymore, you may be experiencing depression. Depression is more than a bad day or low mood. Depression affects your perceptions, physical health, and life functioning.
Signs of depression
Clinically, depression is understood as different types of depression, depending on factors such as timing, intensity, and other contextual or mental health symptoms. For example, dysthymia is a chronic but less severe type of depression with a diagnosis requiring experiencing symptoms for at least two years, while major depression requires symptoms lasting for at least two weeks. Signs of depression include:
- Feeling hopeless and helpless about your life
- Low energy and fatigue
- Change in appetite, either eating too much or not enough
- Crying spells and sadness
- Difficulty making decisions
- Feelings of low self-worth
- Feelings of guilt and/or shame
- Changes in sleep; difficulty sleeping
- Loss of interest for things you once enjoyed
- Suicidal thoughts or ideation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Physical health issues such as unexplained aches and pains; gastrointestinal problems
- Worry and anxiety
A global issue
Depression does not discriminate against cultures, geographic location, age, or gender. According to the World Health Organization, depression and depressive symptoms are common around the world and affect more than 264 million people worldwide. The USA has high rates of major depression with an estimated 17.3 million adults suffering from at least one episode of depression in 2017 (NIMH). Depression affects both men and women, although about twice as many women as men are diagnosed with depression. Additionally, men are more likely to develop co-occurring alcohol abuse while women are more likely to experience co-occurring anxiety. Children and adolescents can also develop depression. If you have a child or teenager who is showing signs of depression it is important to get them help, as depression is among the most treatable of disorders.
Therapy in Minneapolis
If you or someone you love is struggling with symptoms of depression, please reach out to Morningsong Therapy Center by calling or filling out the contact form and clicking send. We have many skilled clinicians that would be honored to join you in your journey.
