It can be difficult to determine if you're depressed or experiencing stress. The main signs of stress and depression are issues with all major areas of your life including school or work, socially, your health and with family.
Basics
Stress is a normal part of life. People experience stress when they get into car accidents, lose a job, have financial trouble and more. Depression is a mental health diagnosis listed in the DSM-IV, the book doctors use to diagnose mental health issues, and is not experienced regularly.
Significance
Overwhelming stress characterized by anger, irritation, physical symptoms and tenseness can lead to depression, which is a serious mental health issue that can result in suicide.
Types
There are different types of depression such as major depressive disorder and postpartum depression, which each have their own symptoms. For example, postpartum depression occurs after a pregnancy.
Depression
Someone experiencing depression might feel incredibly sad or irritable, have trouble focusing at work or school, lose interest in regular activities, gain or lose weight, have issues with sleeping and feel hopeless.
Treatment
The symptoms of extreme stress and depression are treated with talk therapy, support from friends and family members and medication. Talk to your doctor and therapist to determine the right treatment plan.
