Depression is a mood disorder that affects men and women of all ages, though twice as many women are diagnosed with depression, according to the Mayo Clinic. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) notes that multiple forms of depression exist, like major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, psychotic depression, postpartum depression and seasonal affective disorder; however, major depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder are the most common types. Serious signs of depression include dramatic changes in mood and behavior and a preoccupation with death.
Drastic Change in Mood
During depression, the patient may not act like herself; this is due to the drastic change in her mood. The Mayo Clinic states that sadness is the definitive mood of depression, where the patient has crying spells and feels hopeless. The patient may also be irritable and be easily annoyed. HelpGuide.org adds that the patient may also be self-loathing, where she is overcome with guilt and may blame herself for any mistakes.
Withdrawal
Another serious sign of depression is social withdrawal. The Mayo Clinic notes that the patient will pull away from people close to him, or activities he enjoys. The patient may also have a loss of interest in his pastimes. HelpGuide.org adds that depressed teenagers do not have the same withdrawal symptoms as adult patients: While they do pull back from some people or activities, they still maintain some socializing while depressed.
Behavioral Changes
Certain behavioral changes can also indicate depression. The NIMH states that a patient can have trouble sleeping: either not sleeping enough each night or oversleeping. With hypersomnia, the patient can sleep most of the day. Appetite is also affected by depression: the patient can either overeat or barely eat. This can result in a dramatic change in weight.
Suicidal Behaviors
A very serious sign of depression is suicidal behaviors. HelpGuide.org warns that a suicidal patient will talk about death and have a preoccupation with dying. The patient may say that she feels trapped or overwhelmed by life. Certain behaviors are red flags: saying goodbye to important people, getting affairs in order and participating in reckless behaviors that put the patient's life in danger. The patient may also have a noticeable change in mood, where her mood moves from sad to calm.
