Signs of depression are actually easier to recognize than most people think. The difficult part is recognizing the level of severity, as each case of depression can vary widely in range, from a gloomy mood on a dull day, to attempted suicide and thoughts of death. No matter the level of severity, it is critical for everyone to know how to recognize the warning signs of depression, so that they may have the opportunity to seek professional treatment early. It is best to consult a mental health professional before concluding that you would benefit from popular anti-depressant medication such as Zoloft or Prozac.
The following list can be used to determine whether or not the signs of depression are evident. The same signs of depression are generally used by most mental health professionals when evaluating individuals suspected of having depression.
- Sad or irritable mood. The patient is sad and gloomy as seen by a dull or flat affect. He may be irritable often sensitive to comments. Children and adolescents are usually present with irritable mood.
- Lack of motivation and energy in performing routine task. For young people, school work and homework lag behind and they become isolative. For adults, absenteeism at work and procrastination in meeting deadlines can be observed among depressed individuals.
- Poor sleep or over sleeping.
- Radical change in appetite. The consequence of this is loss of weight. On the other hand, overeating can also indicate depression.
- Poor concentration and impaired ability to think is well documented among the depressed.
- Feelings of hopelessness and being down in the dumps.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities. Sport events or social gatherings are no longer interesting and the depressed individual chooses to not be a part of it. A loss of sex drive is also common.
- Frequent thoughts of dying or death.
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt which are often unrealistic.
- Suicidal thoughts and/or suicidal attempts are evident.
With the above signs and symptoms, one can determine whether psychiatric evaluation and management is needed. Keep in mind that most mental health professionals require that at least 5 out of the 10 items above are evident beyond reasonable doubt before a diagnosis of depression is pronounced. If you can recognize these symptoms in yourself or in those around you, you should seek the help of your mental health professional as soon as possible.
