Depression Warning Signs and Why They Must Be Taken Seriously

Depression warning signs can be very obvious in some cases. However there are many times when these symptoms are not that noticeable.

It's natural for people to experience some moments of sadness in their lives. Some of us cry and others may retreat briefly into silence and solitude. These sporadic moments of feeling 'down in the dumps' can be quite normal, although a bit unsettling.

Many try to brush off one or more depression warning signs as being minor problems. There are even family members who feel that a person with depression is exhibiting signs of weakness and will fail to get the individuals the help that they need.

Realize that being sad is one thing but clinical depression is much more severe. This condition becomes a dangerous problem when depression takes over and you are unable to break free of these disheartening emotions.

Many mistakenly believe that you can tell if someone is depressed simply by looking at them. Nothing could be further from the truth. In most instances those suffering from depression can keep their feelings of guilt, sorrow and unworthiness a secret from everyone around them. They will hide many of their symptoms and if you do not know what to look for you could miss an opportunity to provide crucial help.

There are a number of symptoms that can indicate depression, and it is important that you understand what these depression warning signs are so you can intervene if necessary. Not everyone who suffers from depression is capable of seeking help, which means that it is up to family and friends to lend them the support, love and understanding that they need.

Extremes in Moods

Some will have hyper-manic moments where they seem to be running about at a very fast pace. Their movements, actions and thought patterns are not always accurate, but they are always very rapid.

Others will display extreme tiredness and will be slower than normal in everything that they are attempting to do.

Withdrawing from the World

Of all the depression warning signs this one may be the one that is most typically associated with this mental health issue. People who are depressed will begin to withdraw from their families, careers and friends. They will no longer find any joy in the activities that they used to embrace and it may even be difficult for them to make it out of their beds or leave their rooms.

Crying

Not everyone with depression will cry, but the majority of these individuals will have frequent bouts of tears and sobbing.

Fatigue

One of the most common signs of depression is fatigue and tiredness. This is not the usual tired behavior that most people exhibit from overwork or family stress. Depressed individuals feel overwhelmed just by the day to day routines beginning with waking up in the morning and ending with going to bed in the evening.

Guilt

Depression involves deep feelings of guilt, even when the person has done nothing wrong. The guilt manifests itself in other symptoms such as crying or more harmful behaviors such as drugs or self mutilation.

Hopelessness

One symptom of depression that is universally shared by all individuals diagnosed with this condition is the feeling of utter hopelessness. They can see no way out of what they perceive to be a 'terrible' situation and they lose all possible hope and optimism.

Summary

Drastic changes in appetite, activities, speech patterns and regular habits are some of the many symptoms linked to depression. While there are individuals who will display very overt signs of emotional instability others can retreat and keep their feelings hidden. It is up to family and friends to watch for the warning signs that could indicate a major problem.

Anyone who exhibits four or more of these depression warning signs consistently in a two week time span is considered to be a high risk patient. It is important to seek professional help that can break the cycle of depression and help each individual find their own path to recovery.