Symptoms Of Depression

Depression is one of a larger category of conditions known as mood disorders. Feelings of anger, sadness, or inadequacy that get in the way of daily life are common examples.

Depression affects 4.3% of the world’s population, or more than 300 million people, according to the World Health Organization’s website. Approximately one in twenty Indians has depression, and 15% of Indian adults require active intervention for one or more mental health conditions, according to the National Mental Health Survey 2015-16. Over 258 thousand people committed suicide in India in 2012, with those between the ages of 15 and 49 being the hardest hit./span>

Despite sharing certain commonalities with depression, feelings of sadness after experiencing a terrible experience or grief after losing a loved one are separate from depression. Depression is typically accompanied by feelings of self-loathing or low self-esteem, but sadness is not.

While grieving, a person will often have both physical comfort and fond memories of the deceased. In major depressive disorder, sadness is a constant emotion.

Each individual will experience depression in their own unique way. Normal activities may become more difficult, resulting in lost time and lower output. Some long-term medical conditions and interpersonal relationships may also be impacted.

There are a number of physical ailments that depression can bring on.

Coronary heart disease
Asthma
Arthritis
Obesity
Diabetes
Cancer

Understanding that experiencing sadness on occasion is a normal and healthy part of life is crucial. Everyone goes through tough times and struggles. But if you feel down or hopeless a lot of the time, you may be depressed.

Without proper care, depression is seen as a potentially life-threatening medical condition.

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There may be more to depression than just a persistently down or “blue” mood.

The symptoms of a major depressive episode can take several forms. Different substances have different effects on the body and the mind. In addition, symptoms may come and go over time.

Depression Assessment

There is currently no reliable diagnostic tool for depression. However, your healthcare provider can make a diagnosis based on your symptoms and the results of a psychiatric evaluation.

Typically, they will ask you a sequence of questions designed to uncover:

thoughts, feelings, hunger, sleep, and activity levels
Since depression has been linked to various health conditions, your doctor may also do a physical examination and order blood testing. Thyroid problems or a lack of vitamin D can sometimes contribute to the development of depressive symptoms.

The signs of depression should not be ignored. If your mood doesn’t improve or even worsens, you should see a doctor. Depression is a serious mental illness that may cause problems.

Trusted sources, which could add complications, include:

substance abuse disorder suicide ideation owing to social isolation eating disorders weight gain or loss relationship problems a physical injury.

Depression Symptoms and Signs

Depression manifests itself in different ways for different people. Symptoms can vary in intensity, frequency, and length.

If you have had any of the following symptoms of depression for at least two weeks on a daily basis, you should see your doctor.

being sad, anxious, or empty-headed; having a pessimistic, helpless outlook
symptoms such as increased crying, sadness, anger, irritability, fatigue, and a loss of interest in formerly pleasurable activities are all indicators of depression.
physical discomfort with no apparent cause that does not improve with treatment (headaches, aches or pains, digestive problems, cramps) persistent cognitive impairment (difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions; difficulty moving or speaking; difficulty falling asleep; difficulty waking up early or staying up late; changes in appetite or weight)
Behaviors are indicative of self-harm, suicide attempts, or morbid thoughts.

How Often Does Depression Occur?

Suffering from depression is common. Healthcare providers estimate that around 7% of Americans experience depression each year. Over 16%, or about 1 in 6, of American adults, may suffer from depression at some point.

How Can I Tell If I Have the Depression Syndrome?

Having feelings of sadness or despair is a normal human experience. Clinical depression, on the other hand, is characterized by more severe symptoms that persist for at least two weeks.

Your doctor will ask you several questions to determine if you have clinical depression. Providing a family history and filling out a questionnaire are both options. Your doctor may also conduct an examination or arrange laboratory testing to rule out any additional medical issues.

Which People Are Most Prone To Depression?

Depression can affect anyone at any time, regardless of age, gender, or life circumstances. More than 16 million Americans suffer from depression each year.

Women may be more susceptible to depression than men. Furthermore, certain physical disorders or genetics increase the likelihood of having at least one depressive episode throughout your life.

Is There Any Way To Put An End To Depression?

Depression can be avoided by taking care of oneself in healthy ways like getting enough sleep, eating right, and exercising regularly.

You may be more vulnerable to depression if you’ve dealt with it before. If you’re feeling the effects of depression, seek help. With proper attention, you can make a speedy recovery.

Symptoms Of Depression