It can be hard to spot the signs and symptoms of depression in yourself or a loved one. While depression can present differently in many people, there are some prominent symptoms that tend to crop up. Furthermore, people might not be aware of their treatment options, so they delay seeking help because they don’t know where to turn.
Whether you’re concerned that you might be struggling with depression or you’re worried about one of your loved ones, learning more about the symptoms and treatment options for this condition is important. Here are some signs and symptoms that lots of people with depression tend to experience, as well as some of the most popular treatment routes.
Signs & Symptoms
1. Difficulty Handling Basic Tasks
People with depression often have trouble with simple tasks. You might struggle to remember your to-do list at work, leave your room untidy, or even have trouble simply getting out of bed in the morning. You may come across as forgetful or absent-minded. But inside, you’re grappling with brain fog that makes it hard to concentrate on anything. It’s easy to lose your focus at any given moment, and even crucial responsibilities don’t seem so important anymore.
2. Emotional Numbness Or Pervasive Sadness
Some people with depression experience a deep, overwhelming sense of sadness that hangs over their everyday life. No matter what they’re doing or how “good” their circumstances seem from the outside, they can’t shake this feeling of pervasive sadness.
On the other hand, other people with depression may feel emotionally numb. Even if you’re doing something that you used to enjoy, you may not feel any real joy. A lack of interest in activities or hobbies you used to love can be a prominent symptom of depression.
3. Lack Of Energy And Physical Symptoms
Depression can also affect your physical health. You might have trouble sleeping and stay up tossing and turning all night, even if you’re exhausted. Sometimes, you may feel like you have no appetite, or you might suffer from stomachaches and headaches. Overall, depression can sap you of your energy. Even when you do manage to get enough sleep, you still feel tired the next day.
Treatment
1. Talk Therapy
Talk therapy is one popular treatment path for depression. By talking to a therapist about your symptoms and when you begin feeling this way, you’ll be able to address the root cause of your depression. You can also learn helpful strategies for managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life. Working with a therapist gives you the chance to open up about everything that’s on your mind.
2. Medication
Sometimes, talk therapy isn’t enough to help someone work through their depression and overcome their symptoms. Many people with depression benefit from taking medication. However, it’s a good idea to try talk therapy before asking about medication, as many people see major improvements from a combination of sustained talk therapy and medication.
3. Lifestyle Changes
It can be difficult to make big lifestyle changes when you’re living with depression. However, depending on your specific symptoms, the resources you have available, and your personal goals, your therapist might recommend specific lifestyle habits. They can help you set up realistic systems and routines that will allow you to gradually implement these habits. This might include going to bed earlier, making some dietary tweaks, creating room in your schedule for gentle exercise, meditating, or writing in a journal to let your feelings out.
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Are you concerned that you’re experiencing symptoms of depression? Talking to a therapist can help. Reach out to us to discuss your options for scheduling your first session for depression therapy.
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