Depression is one of the most common mental health issues in the world. Millions of people are faced with the signs and symptoms of depression every day.
Unfortunately, too many of those people still choose to go at it alone. Some try to ignore the signs and never get an official diagnosis. Others are ashamed to admit they’re struggling.
You’re not alone in your depression, even if it feels like no one understands you.
While the condition impacts everyone differently, there are certain signs you can look for to know that it’s time to get help. So, if you feel miserable all the time, pay attention to these signs.
1. You Feel Hopeless
Hopelessness can be dangerous. Yet, it’s a common sign of depression. When you start to feel like nothing you do will make your situation better, hopelessness begins to creep in. Unfortunately, a feeling of hopelessness can also make you start to believe there isn’t a point to being here anymore. That often leads to thoughts of self-harm or even suicide.
If you’re feeling hopeless and find yourself questioning the purpose of going on, it’s important to get help right away.
2. You Can’t Concentrate
Do you find yourself unable to concentrate at work? Is it hard to focus when you’re having a conversation with someone? Do your thoughts travel elsewhere even when you’re at home?
Depression often affects careers and relationships because it’s hard to give your thoughts to anything but the condition itself. It starts to take over, which makes it nearly impossible to keep your focus on something or someone.
3. You're Noticing Increasing Physical Health Issues
While most people think depression symptoms are only mental/emotional, they can manifest themselves in physical ways too. Mood disorders can cause chronic pain, headaches, fatigue, bloating, and more.
If you’re dealing with a lot of pain and you’re not sure where it’s coming from, it could be a sign of depression. You can talk to your regular medical doctor about possible options. But, if there is no other potential cause, reaching out to a mental health professional should be your next step.
4. You’ve Lost Interest in Things You Love
Have you always loved movies but can’t bring yourself to watch them lately? Has music been your passion, but you haven’t picked up an instrument in weeks? Or maybe you’re a writer who hasn’t written a single word for a long time.
Depression often keeps you from the things you once loved to do. Even if you try forcing yourself to partake in your favorite hobbies, you don’t get the same enjoyment you once did. If you’re struggling to find happiness in hobbies you used to love, it’s likely a sign you’re dealing with something more serious.
5. You’ve Tried Coping in Other Ways
When you can’t seem to figure out why you feel so miserable all the time, it’s normal to want to “fix” the problem. Unfortunately, for some people, that means turning to drugs, alcohol, or other harmful habits. This can even include risky behaviors or impulsive decisions you typically wouldn’t make under normal circumstances.
Aside from being dangerous, the biggest issue with relying on unhealthy coping mechanisms is they don’t often work. So, you might find yourself trying more or getting involved in even riskier behavior, which can push you down a path of deeper depression.
If any of these signs sound familiar, getting help with fighting your depression should be your next step. You don’t have to feel alone and miserable forever. Life can get better, with the right resources and professional treatment options.
Feel free to contact me if you’re struggling, even if you aren’t sure what to make of these signs. Together, we can get to the bottom of what you’re feeling and work on helping you find some peace again.