Depression can be tricky to identify.
We often see depression depicted in the media as someone who had a negative life experience
and as a result is tearful, withdrawn, and unable to get out of bed. While those symptoms can
be part of a diagnosis, there are many other causes of depression and a wide variety of ways
depression can manifest. Many times, someone suffering from depression does not present as
sad. They may laugh, feel happy at times, and be able to function normally at work and in their day-
to-day interactions. Depression can subtly impact mood and actions. Recognizing these
symptoms is an important step to identifying the need for mental health support.
Depression can physically hurt.
If you feel prolonged aches and pains, feel unusually tired, have unexplained headaches or
stomach problems, skin rashes, or hives, those symptoms can be caused by depression.
Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep can also be a clue that your body is struggling with
depression. If a doctor’s visit rules out any medical causes, be sure to talk to a professional
about how you are feeling.
Things that you used to enjoy seem less appealing.
Depression can steal our joy. If going out with friends for your weekly Saturday brunch no longer
interests you. Oftentimes depression can alter our appetite and impact our food patterns, so you
may find yourself uninterested in eating at all, or conversely, wanting to eat more “comfort foods” than usual. If you experience a swing in appetite or sudden weight change, it’s a good
idea to evaluate if how you are feeling is affecting how you are eating.
You are easily irritated.
Studies show that irritability is as much a symptom of depression as is sadness. If everyone and
everything annoys you lately, depression may be the cause. When our body is run down
physically or mentally, our ability to tolerate even small annoyances can be impacted.
There isn’t always an obvious cause.
When someone experiences a major loss, a disappointment at work or in a relationship, or
moves away from family and friends, it’s natural to experience some form of adjustment or
mental health struggles. However, depression doesn’t always have an identifiable reason to
appear, and many times, otherwise healthy happy people can experience depression for what
seems like no reason at all. Depression can be caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain,
which is not the “fault” of anyone experiencing it. Depression affects every race, every gender,
and every income level.
If you or someone you know is struggling with signs of depression, talking with a therapist or
psychiatrist can help. Rivia Mind provides a holistic approach to treatment.
Click here for a free 15-minute clinical consultation, or book directly with a provider of your choice.
