1. You feel sad.
If you feel sad for a long period of time, it could be indicative of depression. But remember: sadness is normal and it will eventually pass.
Depressive feelings can have various origins, such as grief or the end of a relationship. Additionally, some people are more vulnerable to this disease than others.
If you think you may have depression, see your doctor. Your doctor may perform a physical exam and psychological interview to determine if your symptoms meet the DSM-5 criteria for depression, and then refer you to a mental health professional for further evaluation.
2. You feel hopeless.
Depression usually presents with a feeling of hopelessness that can last for days, making it difficult to function normally.
If you've been struggling with fatigue for several weeks, talk to a doctor. They can prescribe medication or create an effective treatment plan to help relieve your discomfort.
Receiving treatment early is essential to prevent depression from worsening or leading to suicide.
It is possible to develop a healthy mindset and replace feelings of hopelessness with feelings of optimism. This is one of the most essential mental health skills anyone can acquire, regardless of age or circumstances. Listen to Editor-in-Chief Amy Morin, LCSW, tell her story below about how she has done this in her own life.
3. You feel irritable.
Depression can often feel like a flood of negative thoughts, feelings, and emotions. It can also cause irritability.
But there is another less recognized symptom of depression: anger. This feeling can be very similar to, and sometimes harder to distinguish from, the anger experienced during anxiety attacks.
Recent research indicates that people who experience irritability while depressed may have a different form of the disorder than those who do not suffer from it.
It is essential to seek professional help if you suspect you may have depression. They can identify the cause of your irritability and suggest the most appropriate treatments, which may include therapy, medication, or both. Ignoring the symptoms of depression will not make them go away: leaving them untreated can make them worse.
4. You feel exhausted.
There are several ways to manage the fatigue that often accompanies depression, such as getting more rest, exercising, and changing eating habits.
If you experience fatigue and are concerned it may be related to depression, see a doctor. They can rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms.
Your doctor may prescribe antidepressants and talk to you about psychotherapy (talk therapy). Both approaches have been shown to reduce depression-related fatigue. They can also improve your quality of life and overall mental health.
