Signs of Depression

With the holiday season in full swing it’s normal for all of us to feel overwhelmed, anxious and even a bit sad. There’s so much to do this time of year and often expectations are so high, it can be easy to stumble into the holiday blues or winter blues. It’s normal to have a bad day. It’s normal to feel sad sometimes for no reason. Depression is different, it isn’t normal to feel empty, worthless and alone for long periods of time.

Everyone experiences some feelings of sadness that are otherwise unexplained at one time or another. Many of us experience SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder which can be caused by the lack of light during the winter months. Many people have difficulty during the holidays because of difficult family relationships, divorce, death in the family etc. All are very tangible reasons that may cause depressive symptoms (and if left unacknowledged could devolve into depression), but some of us also experience sadness that isn’t related to any event currently happening. Some of us seem to get stuck in a mood and can’t seem to find a way out.

Depression is defined as a mood disorder that causes feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and pointlessness. Those who suffer from depression lose interest in the very things that used to bring them joy such as food, sex, people and activities. Depression can be debilitating. It can prevent those who have it from going to work, from sleeping and otherwise enjoying life. Depression feeds on itself making it difficult for the person to pull himself out without help from professionals.

So, how can you tell the difference between normal holiday blues and deeper depression that requires intervention?

Holiday Blues are Temporary – The holiday blues sneak up on right around the time of the first holiday commercial and if it seems as though those are happening sooner than before you’re right. The over commercialization of the holidays can make anyone sad for a simpler time. But, they holiday blues don’t usually last beyond New Years or Valentine’s Day. Those who are depressed don’t suddenly perk up when the holidays are over. If you find you’re still having a difficult time getting motivated, finding joy or just feeling like things are ok, you might be dealing with depression and should probably seek professional help.

Depression Lasts – Depression happens when feelings of worthlessness, despair, sadness and lack of motivation last longer than two weeks. If you have feelings of being stuck or trapped you may actually be experiencing depression and again, should seek professional attention.

Depression is Tiring – Those who suffer from depression describe feeling tired all the time. Those with depression my have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep which would make them tired, or they may be sleeping all the time and yet never feel rested.

Spiraling Thoughts – People who are depressed often describe a record player of sorts constantly going on in their head. They replay negative thoughts over and over again and can’t seem to turn them off.

Addicting Behaviors – Often times those with depression will try to self medicate with alcohol, smoking or other drugs. The initial use of drugs or alcohol stimulates dopamine in the brain, something that isn’t happening naturally due to depression, it’s a temporary fix at best that can turn into a bigger problem if left untreated. Don’t treat your depression with drugs or alcohol no matter how tempting it may be, seek professional help so you don’t need other stimulants.

Eating Habits Change – Some people eat more, considerably more, when they are depressed. Others might forget to eat altogether. If your eating habits change drastically for more than two weeks seek professional assistance.

Isolation – Those who suffer from depression will usually refrain from spending time with friends. They become more and more isolated which makes it harder to climb out of depression.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms of depression for longer than two weeks, or you know someone who is, please seek the assistance of a therapist, counselor, psychologist, psychiatrist or your medical doctor for help. They can help direct you on the path to healing. Depression is a lonely thing to endure but it is very treatable with therapy, medication or a combination of both. You don’t have to suffer depression, there is help. Please call 312-818-4998 for more information about treating depression.