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YahooEveryone gets sad or 'blue' every once in a while, but sometimes those feelings of sadness go far beyond just being blue and can last for an extended period of time, disrupting one's normal flow of life. This may be depression, and if left untreated can last for years and lead to worsening symptoms and possibly even suicide. It is important to recognize and understand the signs and symptoms in yourself or your loved one, and to seek treatment as soon as possible. Here are some signs to look for:
Persistent sadness that doesn't seem to want to go away. A little occasional sadness over life's trials and tribulations is normal, but the sadness from depression can linger for weeks and doesn't necessarily have a rational cause.
Overwhelming fatigue. There is a feeling of being completely exhausted all the time, and for no good reason, sometimes with an almost constant feeling of the need for more sleep.
Difficulty concentrating. The person may suddenly find it harder to focus on a job or other daily activities. Accomplishing the smallest, simplest tasks becomes difficult.
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. The person may begin to feel that they have no hope left in the world, and that they are not worthy of any of the good things life has to offer. They may feel that nothing good will ever happen to them again.
Difficulty making decisions. Making even the smallest decisions may become overwhelming and complicated to a depressed person.
Loss of interest in things the person previously found enjoyable. The person will suddenly withdraw from activities that he/she used to like doing.
Change in sleep patterns. The person may have trouble falling asleep or may wake up frequently during the night, or they may sleep for excessively long periods.
Irritability. The person may exhibit abnormal levels of agitation or mood changes.
Unexplained aches and pains. The person may feel pain that can't be explained medically.
Frequent thoughts of death or suicide. The person may think or talk about death or suicide, or may express feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or helplessness.
These symptoms may be accompanied by others such as headaches, stomach or digestive problems, changes in appetite which can cause weight loss or gain, or changes in sexual function and sex drive.
Depression is a mental disease and denial plays a major role in exacerbating it. No one wants to believe they have a mental disorder, but it's important to be honest with yourself or your loved one and to not wait to get help.
