Depression is not just a bad mood or a temporary sadness. It is a serious mental illness that affects thoughts, emotions, behavior, and even physical health. Unfortunately, many people ignore the symptoms of depression or consider them normal, but this can lead to even bigger problems in the future, writes IZ. Therefore, it is important to understand when a bad mood is a temporary phenomenon, and when it is something more. In this article, we will consider the main signs of depression and methods of dealing with it.
Content
- Signs of depression: how to determine that it is not just a bad mood?
- 1. Constant fatigue
- 2. Loss of interest in things that used to bring joy
- 3. Sleep problems
- 4. Decreased appetite or overeating
- How do you determine if it's depression or just a temporary condition?
- 1. Duration of symptoms
- 2. Impact on daily life
- Why depression is not just a weakness: the physiological aspect
- 1. Pain and discomfort in the body
- 2. Changes in hormonal levels
- 3. Decreased immunity
- How to deal with depression?
Signs of depression: how to determine that it is not just a bad mood?
Depression has many different manifestations, and they can be physical, emotional, mental, and behavioral. Here are some of the main signs that may indicate a depressive disorder:
1. Constant fatigue
One of the first signs of depression is a feeling of constant fatigue that doesn't go away even after a long rest. A person may feel like they don't have the energy to do even simple tasks, like washing dishes or going to work. This is often a signal that the body is not coping with stress or emotional strain.
2. Loss of interest in things that used to bring joy
People with depression often lose interest in hobbies or other activities that they used to enjoy. For example, they may lose interest in sports, hanging out with friends, or listening to their favorite music. This is one of the key symptoms of depression, where even previously enjoyable activities seem pointless.
3. Sleep problems
If you experience constant insomnia or, conversely, sleep too much and it also does not give you a feeling of rest, this may be a symptom of depression. Insomnia is often accompanied by feelings of anxiety and restlessness. There may also be nightmares or constant awakenings in the middle of the night.
4. Decreased appetite or overeating
Changes in eating habits are another sign of depression. Some people lose their appetite and stop eating, while others start overeating as a way to relieve stress or upset. This can lead to dramatic changes in weight. True changes in eating habits may indicate a deeper problem than just a situational mood swing.
How do you determine if it's depression or just a temporary condition?
Sometimes it's hard to tell if your mood is just a passing phase or if it's actually depression. Here are some tips to help you figure it out:
1. Duration of symptoms
Temporary mood swings can be related to a specific event or situation (like a bad day at work). However, if your symptoms last for more than two weeks and don't go away, it could be a sign of depression. The longer your negative feelings last, the more likely it is that it's not just stress, but a serious disorder.
2. Impact on daily life
Depression can seriously affect your daily life. If you feel like you can't do even simple tasks, or if your work and social life are suffering because of your low mood, this could be a major sign of depression. Losing the ability to lead a normal life is one of the main symptoms of this disorder.
Why depression is not just a weakness: the physiological aspect
Depression is not a sign of weakness or just a bad mood. It is a serious mental disorder that can have physiological effects on the body. Here are some physical signs of depression to look out for:
1. Pain and discomfort in the body
Depression can manifest itself through physical pain, which often has no specific medical cause. These can include headaches, backaches, muscle spasms, or digestive problems. Mental stress can cause muscle spasms and tension, which can lead to physical pain.
2. Changes in hormonal levels
Depression affects the production of hormones like serotonin and dopamine, which are responsible for mood and feelings of happiness. Low levels of these hormones can lead to feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, and apathy.
3. Decreased immunity
Depression can also weaken the immune system, making a person more vulnerable to illness. Prolonged stress and emotional tension negatively affect overall health, reducing the body's ability to fight infections.
How to deal with depression?
If you recognize yourself in some of these symptoms, it's important not to ignore them. Here are some steps that can help combat depression:
- See a doctor or therapist. Professional help is a key step in treating depression. A specialist can help you understand the causes of your condition and prescribe treatment, which may include therapy or medication.
- Physical activity: Regular exercise has been shown to be effective in fighting depression. It increases endorphins, which help lift your mood and reduce stress levels.
- Dietary changes : Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids can significantly improve your mental state.
- Social support. Connecting with loved ones and friends can help you feel less alone and more supported. Don't be afraid to reach out for help.
- Meditation and relaxation. Relaxation and meditation techniques can help you relieve stress and learn to better cope with emotions.
Recall that we previously wrote about the impact of seasonal allergies on the body at different years of life.