Depression is very similar to a storm that hits you in silence and often the only thing we know about it is the destruction it leaves afterward. As a person who has felt the depression first-hand, I know for sure how essential it is to distinguish the initial forms of it. In this guide, I will tell you about what I have learned in the case of a possible warning of depression, but let me tell you that firstly, I am not a medical expert, I am rather a person who is passionate about mental health.
Understanding Depression: More Than Just Feeling Sad
Before we explore the signs of depression, let's correct this misunderstanding: the feeling of depression is not necessarily the same as feeling sad. It is a condition that influences the way in which our brain functions. Normally, it not only makes us sad but also has negative thinking patterns over us. For instance, I thought to myself, "But it's normal, people get sad sometimes, right?" Then later I realized that depression is not simply occasionally feeling down; it is an incurable condition that can endure for weeks or even a whole month.
Early Warning Signs to Watch For
1. Changes in Sleep Patterns
The thing that struck me first after depression began to come into my life was how my sleep changed. For instance, some people may sleep for a longer period than usual, while others may have difficulty staying asleep. I found myself awake for many hours on end, anxiety racing through my brain, and ultimately have been unable to fall asleep. Severe changes in your sleeping habits are quite a significant sign to show you that you may be dealing with a serious health issue.
2. Loss of Interest in Activities
It was a painting, for me, a beloved interest that I used to spend time on was the first thing to be demolished. Suddenly, the thought of going near one of my easels and picking up a brush was too much for me to handle. One way one can lose interest in activities that one usually enjoys is the so-called anhedonia, most of the time occurring in the case of depression. If you are not able to enjoy the activities that used to be your source of happiness, you should start worrying.
3. Changes in Appetite and Weight
Depression can lead to different eating patterns. On the one hand, people may not feel like eating and as a result, they lose weight, whereas those who are the other way around may eat more as it makes them feel better and then gain weight. Often, I would approve to myself that I was very busy and so I can miss meals, then go the whole day without one. Be aware of any abnormal change in your eating habits or weight.
4. Difficulty Concentrating
Some specific things like focusing on work, school, or following the story of your favorite TV show may not be enough based on the most likely signs that indicate depression. I can recall the moment when I was at my desk, just staring at my computer screen, quite unable to produce a coherent thought. This "brain fog" can be rather an annoyance and it is usually one of the very first warning signs.
5. Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt
Depression likes to confuse our self-concept. You might blame yourself for something already forgivable and that isn't even your fault. I remember saying to myself, "You are not capable of doing anything right." If those negative thought patterns start to invade you, it is important to be able to accept them as the depression signals and detach them.
6. Physical Aches and Pains
Even I was surprised about it but physical manifestation can be also part of depression. Headaches, backaches, or general body aches without any specific physical illness could have a relation to depression. More often than not, I used to feel like I had been physically exhausted even though I was not actually exerting myself at all. If you notice some unexplained body symptoms, it probably means that your mental health status should be questioned too.
7. Irritability or Mood Swings
Though we are used to looking at depression as a continuous sense of sadness, it can also alter the mood in such a way that one becomes irksome from time to time, or it can inflate the mood from sadness to cheer and back but more violent than usual. It was very upsetting as I ended up shouting at my family over minor issues and after that, I was feeling guilty. If you are more irritable than usual, or your mood changes periodically, then the likelihood of having an earlier warning sign is high.
8. Social Withdrawal
Depression, more often than not, forces us to break contact with the outside world. You might be tempted to give reasons, avoid social occasions, or just put calls and messages on hold. I was in the habit of making lies to my friends not to see them while I was being aware of the fact that being so alone wasn't right. Lack of interest in social connective activities should be a signal for you.
9. Changes in Grooming Habits
Actually, it's kind of surprising but ignoring yourself in matters of personal hygiene is one of the indicators of depression. You might get into the habit of not having baths, not cleaning your teeth, or maybe you wear the same clothes for a few days. I remember days when the thought of simply getting out of bed to brush my teeth was just too much for me.
10. Fatigue or Loss of Energy
One of the most powerful early signs of depression that is quite frequently present is constant tiredness following a complete night's rest. I was feeling literally cloaked by the heaviness of my own body and just doing the smallest task took quite a lot from me. If you still have fatigue even after a good rest, it might not just be because you are tired.
The Importance of Early Detection
Understanding those early hints becomes a great factor in the fight with depression because prevention in the beginnings brings a positive character to the curing process. A study that was released by the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry showed that early detection, as well as treatment of depression, can lead to better outcomes and a decreased likelihood of recurrences.
From my experience, it was of great assistance for me to recognize and deal with these symptoms more quickly. It is like when you get a cold and if you start treating it early you will recover faster.
What to Do If You Recognize These Signs
Should you be surprised when you relate to these signs and nod your head, do not get carried away by fear immediately. Acknowledging the early manifestations is the very first stage of getting help. Here are some things you can do:
Talk to someone you trust: Share your feeling with your friend, family member, or even your romantic partner. Sometimes, just speaking out what you are going through can already bring you some peace of mind.
Reach out to a mental health professional: Do not be afraid to seek help from a professional. They are trained and experienced and can give you the appropriate help you need. Do not be afraid that your problems are not as "big" as the therapist's other clients' - if it affects you, it is worth mentioning.
Consider lifestyle changes: Exercises done regularly, a diet with all the nutrients necessary, and a set sleeping plan can have an immense impact on your mood. Surprisingly, I found that even a quick daily walk could be a cure for my depression.
Practice self-compassion: Be gentle and kind with yourself. Depression is not your fault, and acknowledging the warning signs does not make you a weak person – it shows that you are self-aware and are taking steps to deal with this problem.
Explore support groups: Building relationships with others who have gone through similar things may be a bridge to getting your way out. Hunt for a local or online support group that welcomes people in depression.
A Personal Note
I have to underline that every person with depression has a unique experience. You may recognize some of these symptoms in yourself, or you might not. The only crucial thing is to listen to your guts. If something seems not right, then surely it is worth worrying about.
It is good to know that actually seeking help is not a sign of weakness on the contrary, it is a sign of great strength. I went through quite a long period of time learning this particular lesson, but after I did, everything changed. The good news is that depression is curable, and one of the first steps to its treatment is recognizing the early signs.
Conclusion
Depression is not a label that has to stick to you or a power that has the full control to mold your life. Awareness about these initial warning signs is already a big step towards the successful protection and improvement of your mental health. If besides you, someone else exhibits these signs, you should express your concern and not be afraid to seek help. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there is hope and help available.
Take care of yourself, and be kind to yourself, and remember it is okay to ask for help. Your mental health is important, and you do deserve to be better.
