Signs of Depression

Depression is a real illness that can hurt the mind as well as the body. Everyone feels down in the dumps at least once in her life, but depression is different. You can't just snap out of it; most people require a doctor's help, in the form of therapy or medication. Anyone can have depression, from an elderly person to a child. Knowing the different signs of depression means that you or a loved one can get the help that is needed to get better.

Step 1

Be on the alert for feelings of hopelessness. Deep despair and helplessness are among the most obvious signs of depression. You might feel as if nothing matters, or start crying for long periods of time for no apparent reason.

Step 2

Monitor for a loss of pleasure in daily activities. A person with depression will draw away from others--even those he loves--and stop doing things he used to enjoy on a daily basis. This can make it hard on his family, because he may not be able to take care of his children, spouse or even himself.

Step 3

Pay attention to suicidal thoughts or behavior. When people suffer from depression, they sometimes begin feeling that they are worthless, that all they do is make mistakes and that everything that goes wrong is their fault. At times, these feelings lead to thoughts of death and suicide, or cause the sufferer to exhibit suicidal behavior. This is a sign of depression that should be taken seriously.

Step 4

Heed feelings of fatigue. Being tired all the time makes it hard to function. Even the simplest tasks--such as walking your pet, answering the phone or even turning on a light--may take too much energy to perform. People who suffer from depression may go to bed tired and wake up tired, feeling drained physically and mentally all the time.

Step 5

Look for a change in sleeping habits. Some people who suffer from depression have bouts of insomnia, while others may sleep for hours at a time, throughout the day and night. Some people experience bad dreams that disrupt their sleep. These changes may cause sluggishness or agitation. This can also cause problems with concentration and remembering things.

Step 6

Watch out for a change in appetite. Some sufferers may find themselves eating more and gaining weight, while others may lose their appetites and only eat when they are forced to.

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People suffering from depression may also have aches and pains that won't go away, even when treated.

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