Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While we all experience periods of sadness or low mood, clinical depression is more persistent and can significantly impact a person’s daily life. Often, those suffering from depression may not recognize their symptoms or may be hesitant to seek help. This is where friends and family can play a crucial role. By learning to identify the signs of depression in our loved ones, we can offer support and encourage them to get the help they need.
Monarch psychatrists explain key symptoms of depression, from changes in behavior and mood to physical symptoms that might not be immediately associated with mental health. Understanding these signs can be the first step in helping someone you care about on their journey to recovery. Whether you’re concerned about a family member, friend, or colleague, knowing what to look for can make a significant difference in their lives.
What is the definition of depression?
Depression is defined as a diagnosis of a minimum of two weeks of low mood or anhedonia, a psychological condition characterized by the inability to experience pleasure in everyday activities.
Short bouts of sadness are a normal part of life, Monarch doctors explain. But if symptoms last longer than two weeks, the diagnosis may be clinical depression.
Symptoms of depression are not just psychological, but can be physical, as well. This can look like changes in sleep, appetite, energy level, and the way your body feels.
You may actually feel heavy because of the way you think about the problems in your life. You might not be able to see the good and the positive – only the things that are negative in your life and possibly feel overwhelming guilt or anxiety.
What are the types of depression?
- Major Depression: This is when someone feels very sad and has trouble doing normal things. It can make it hard to work, sleep, and think clearly.
- Persistent Depression: This is also called dysthymia. It’s not as bad as major depression, but it lasts for a long time. People with this might feel down for months or even years.
- Minor Depression: This is a lot like major depression, but it doesn’t last as long. People might feel very sad, but these feelings go away sooner than with major depression.
- Atypical Depression: This is a type of depression characterized by an increase in appetite and possibly sleep, and more likely to occur in women than men.
Monarch experts also point out that the symptoms of depression look different in different genders and at different ages:
In women, depression often shows up as a sad or unhappy mood. In men, depression may appear as anger or irritability. Both men and women with depression might pull away from others, have low energy, and lose interest in doing things they usually enjoy.
In children, depression can look like constant sadness or symptoms that get in the way of their social life, hobbies, schoolwork, or family time. Other signs in children may include anger, staying away from others, changes in eating or sleeping habits, or trouble focusing.
Why does depression happen?
Depression can occur for a variety of reasons:
- Family history. Depression is often genetic. “If you have had a parent who experienced depression, the chances of you being diagnosed are significantly higher,” Monarch doctors note.
- Gender. Women often experience an increased risk of depression compared to men.
- Trauma experience. Individuals who have experienced trauma like the loss of a loved one, an injury, abuse, or violence, are more likely to experience depression.
What are the treatment options for depression?
Visit a health care provider for help you or someone you know is struggling with depression. Find out how long the person has been feeling this way, how much their behavior has changed, and if there are any factors making it worse, like drugs or alcohol, which can make depression harder to diagnose.
Only about one-third of people with severe depression seek help from a mental health professional. Many people wrongly believe depression is something you can control or overcome by willpower.
“You can’t just think your way out of depression because of the way your brain handles the illness,” Monarch experts explain. “Depression is one of the most common disabilities in the world, but it doesn’t define who you are.”
Once diagnosed, a healthcare provider can recommend treatment for depression. Options may include peer support, support groups, therapy, medication or case management.
What can I do to help my loved one with clinical depression?
- Acknowledge what they’re going through. Although it might be tempting to ignore their depression symptoms, it can help to acknowledge how hard it must be for them and show your support for the tough time they’re going through.
- Keep them active. Although they might be tired, invite them to social events or to do a physical activity together. This will help manage their symptoms.
- Encourage them to seek help. You can only do so much. Encourage them to seek professional help to get the guidance they need.
Professional help is available. Contact Monarch today at (866) 272-7826 to begin treatment and find the support you need.