4 Common Symptoms of Clinical Depression to Be Aware Of

Depression can happen to anyone, yet many people who suffer from it don’t realize they have it or are reluctant to seek help. Everyone experiences emotional lows from time to time, especially in the face of struggles and loss. But when depression symptoms are persistent or severe enough to interfere with your ability to function, professional depression treatment may be in order. If you’re concerned that you or a loved one may have clinical depression, here are four signs to watch for.

Clinical Depression Can Have Physical Symptoms

Depressed people often sleep too much or too little. If your loved one doesn’t have much energy and feels tired all the time, and physical causes can be ruled out, depression may be the culprit. Changes in eating and appetite– either eating too much or not enough– are common, leading to sudden, unintentional weight gain or loss. Your loved one may also experience unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches, body aches and pains, and digestive problems that can’t be resolved with treatment.

Depression Symptoms Include Withdrawal and Apathy

Depression symptoms also include loss of interest in activities and hobbies you once enjoyed. Your schooling or career may no longer give you the sense of purpose it once did. You may also be tempted to isolate yourself from family and friends. People who are depressed frequently have difficulty concentrating and making decisions, too.

Negative Emotions

Depression often results in feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness, and unwarranted guilt. Depressed men are more likely than depressed women to deal with substance abuse, misplaced anger, and irritability. Depressed moods may lead them to engage in risky behaviors, too, such as driving at breakneck speeds. While depression doesn’t necessarily cause anxiety, anxious feelings are common because depression-sufferers feel as if their lives are taking a downward spiral that they can’t control.

Suicidal Thoughts

Depressed people usually give some indication that they’re considering suicide before they attempt it. Warning signs include:

• Experiencing prolonged sadness, then suddenly appearing calm or even happy
• Commenting about feeling worthless, hopeless, or wanting to “check out”
• Tying up loose ends as if preparing for death
• Engaging in potentially life-threatening behaviors or talking about dying

Comprehensive Mental Health Treatment for Clinical Depression

South Sound Behavioral Hospital provides comprehensive depression treatment. Specialized care includes inpatient therapy, partial hospitalization, and outpatient depression counseling. Contact us to learn more or to schedule an evaluation.