According to Mayo Clinic, depression is one of the most common health conditions in the world. Depression affects the mind and body, and it can even impact the people around a depressed individual. Depression is often associated with extreme sadness and feelings of despair. Treatment can be effective in managing the symptoms of depression. Psychotherapy, counseling and medication are a few of the common modes of treatment. Identifying depression in others may be difficult. Some individuals may have symptoms that are quite obvious, while others struggle to understand what is wrong. According to Mental Health America, having five symptoms or more for a period of two weeks or longer, indicates likely clinical depression. If this is the case for you or someone you kno,w seek medical treatment from a medical doctor or certified counselor or psychologist.
Apathy
When an individual loses interest in things that were once important to her, it is one sign of depression. Carrying out daily activities becomes difficult as they don't have the same meaning as they once did. A feeling of general apathy towards a majority of activities in life, including sex, can signify depression.
Feeling Blue
As noted by the Mayo Clinic, some of the most recognized symptoms of depression are sadness, hopelessness, crying without reason, feeling worthless, and thoughts of suicide or suicidal behavior. HelpGuide.org describes these symptoms as self-loathing. Being overly harsh and critical of yourself may arise from depression.
Irritability
Restlessness, irritability and being easily annoyed are other symptoms of depression, according to Helpguide.org. A depressed person may take on an entirely negative attitude. This may be easily recognized by observers as problematic for an individual who was once optimistic and happy. However, an individual suffering from depression may not think to link his agitation to depression but instead to all the things in his life that he dislikes.
Physical Effects
The Mayo Clinic points out the following physical signs of depression: unexplained ailments such as back pain and headaches, fatigue, weakness, weight gain or loss that was not intended, problems sleeping and trouble focusing. Individuals with depression may have dark circles under their eyes from a lack of sleep and from stress.
