Depression is characterized by feelings of sadness, irritability and hopelessness, fatigue, sleep issues, weight gain and loss, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms usually have detrimental effects on a person's life. Someone's career, family and friends can be negatively affected by depression. People suffering from depression can get treatment through therapy and medication to live a more fulfilling life. According to the Mayo Clinic, some people suffering from depression will only have one episode; however, most will need regular treatment for recurrent depression.
Relationship Impacts
No one wants to feel sad or irritable, but people with depression feel that way on a regular basis. This can affect the person's ability to form lasting, healthy relationships and maintain relationships with friends and family members. Loved ones of the person suffering from depression may distance themselves, because they don't know how to help or don't understand that the person has depression.
If you're suffering from depression you may feel hopeless and worthless. You might not be able to see an end to the depression, which can make you resist treatment that could help you. Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness can lead to thoughts of suicide and death.
Sleep Issues
Many times people who suffer from depression have issues with sleeping. They may not be able to go to sleep or stay asleep or they may sleep too much. If you aren't getting the right amount of sleep, you will probably have trouble concentrating and continue to feel irritable and hopeless. Trouble concentrating can lead to issues at work. If you consistently come late to work or call in sick due to fatigue, you risk losing your job. This can add financial stress to an already desperate situation.
Dropping Activities
Things that used to make you happy usually don't when you feel depressed. You might stop having sex with your husband, refuse to go to your weekly book club and skip your Sunday lunches with your sister. The people you ignore may become resentful, upset or angry and decide to end the relationship or distance themselves from you.
Reckless Behaviors
Some people don't understand their feelings of depression and want to do anything to escape from them, so they turn to drugs and alcohol. They might participate in reckless behaviors such as drinking and driving, gambling away large amounts of money or having unprotected sex with strangers. These behaviors can lead to medical issues, problems with the law or issues with friends and family members.
