Symptoms Of Depression You Need To Know
Depression (or Major Depressive Disorder) is a debilitating condition that affects several areas of a person’s daily life, from self-care to relationships, work and even lead to physical health effects. Experiencing good and bad days are a natural part of life. However, it is important to understand whether what you are experiencing are actually symptoms of depression and may require further treatment.
One of the main features of depression is the duration and severity of symptoms. While most people will experience some of the symptoms at some stage in their lives, when these symptoms continue for at least two weeks and interfere in daily functioning, a diagnosis of depression should be considered.
Symptoms of depression
The main criteria for a diagnosis of depression is low mood, or loss of interest in usual activities.
In addition to a low mood, people with depression will also likely experience at many of the following symptoms:
- – Change in appetite
- – Weight gain or weight loss
- – Insomnia or sleeping too much
- – Fatigue and low energy
- – Feeling worthless, guilty, and hopeless
- – Inability to focus and concentrate
- – Movements that are very slow or agitated
- – Suicidal ideation
Diagnosing depression
Before diagnosing major depression it is also important to rule other causes that can contribute to these symptoms, such as:
- – Medical illness such as thyroid conditions, anaemia
- – Substance use (such as alcohol, cannabis)
- – Other mental health conditions (for instance psychosis, or bipolar disorder if there is a history of a manic episode)
Clinicians will often use diagnostic criteria, such as the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) or ICD (International Classification of Diseases) to make a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder. Rating scales, such as Beck’s Depression Inventory or Hamilton Rating Scale are also used to help gain a better understanding of the symptoms patients are experiencing and the impact on their lives.
If you or someone you know is experiencing depression, it is important to seek help.
Visit this link for a list of mental health websites and emergency contacts available in your country.
