If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs that may indicate that they are suffering from depression, it is important to take the right steps. Depression is a medical condition that affects one out of every 10 people in different ways. Anxiety, bipolar disorder, and suicidal thoughts are part of the wider spectrum of mental illness. Research shows that, in the United States alone, about 15 million adults experience symptoms of depression. In addition to the mental symptoms of depression, it is also quite common to experience physiological depression symptoms, as well. This is also known as clinical depression or major depressive disorder. The condition can negatively affect both how you feel and your thought processes.
Additionally, it can also affect your behavior, which can have a negative impact on your relationships with the people around you, such as your friends, family, and co-workers. Depression symptoms may also make it exceptionally difficult for you to perform your daily activities, which is why the Social Security Administration has allowed people who are suffering to claim Social Security Disability For Depression. However, it is important to understand the fundamental signs of depression so that you can take action for yourself or your loved ones before it is too late.
Identifying the Symptoms of Depression
The National Institute of Mental Health has identified numerous symptoms that are commonly associated with depression based on medical studies, records, and interviews with those diagnosed with the condition. However, it is important to remember that each case is different, and no two people are affected in the same way. With that being said, there are consistencies among sufferers that form the backbone of identifying cases of depression.
These are some of the most commonly experienced symptoms that suffers report:
- Most patients will experience a persistent feeling of sadness. They can feel empty on the inside and sometimes experience some degree of anxiousness.
- Losing interest in things that they once enjoyed, such as activities that they once considered to be enjoyable, is a common symptom.
- They may experience cognitive complications, such as problems with their ability to recall information, concentrate, and make sound decisions.
- They can feel helpless, guilty, or that they lack the worth that they once felt that they had in life.
- Low energy levels, increased fatigue levels, and persistent pessimism are common.
- Mood swings and extreme irritability often occurs, followed by periods of extreme lows.
- Sleep disturbances are common, such as an inability to fall asleep or the desire to sleep longer than usual.
- Changes in eating patters may also signal depression. Some people may experience a lack of desire to eat, while others may eat emotionally and gain a considerable amount of weight.
- Physical pain can be a symptom of depression, too. Many people who are depressed suffer from headaches, and others experience muscle cramps.
- Many patients also suffer from suicidal thoughts, and some may attempt to end their lives.
Warning Signs of Depression
In addition to understanding the symptoms of depression, it is also essential to understand the warning signs associated with the condition. Depression is a serious condition that can be associated with an exceptionally high risk of suicide. By knowing about the condition, you are better equipped to handle the overwhelming hopelessness that may accompany depression.
The following are the most severe symptoms of depression:
- Obsessing about death.
- An abrupt change in mood, in which a depressed person suddenly appears to be fine and extremely happy. This could indicate that they have started making plans to end their lives.
- Many people contemplating suicide may start giving away their prized possessions, creating a will, and = saying goodbye to their loved ones.
- Engaging in dangerous activities, such as substance abuse.
- Expressing apathy about life and verbally stating that they would be better off dead.
- Openly talking about their desire to die by suicide or asking questions about suicide.
Learning to recognize the symptoms of depression can help you determine whether you or a loved one suffers from this condition and identify how to overcome it. If you or anyone you know experiences these depression symptoms, immediately consult a mental health specialist to explore treatment options.
In addition to medication and therapy, here are a few tips that can help those who are suffering from depression feel better.
- Decorate your home in bright hues, because it can improve one’s mood.
- Take a long and warm shower to relax your muscles. Also, sitting in the bathtub reading a novel or listening to music that you enjoy is a great way to relax and make yourself feel good.
- Meditation can be an excellent way to alleviate your depression symptoms. Studies have shown that meditation can improve your mood and also prevent hypertension.
- There is no shame in reaching out for support from family and friends if you suffer from depression. You can also read stories of other people who have successfully overcome depression.
- Taking care of yourself and engaging in self-care and good hygiene can boost your self-esteem.
If you need to apply for Social Security benefits for depression, consider talking to a Social Security Disability Lawyer. They can help you with assembling the documentation you need to prepare a strong application and improve your chances of having your claim approved without undue denials or delays.