While everyone will experience high points and low points in their lifetime, the degree to which everyone experiences their highs and lows varies greatly.
For those who experience more extreme low points, it can be hard to know if or when you should seek help. In this post, we will discuss the symptoms of depression and where you can find help to better manage your low points in life.
There is a difference between feeling depressed and struggling with depression.
Feelings of depression are fleeting and don’t last longer than a day or two. Depression lasts for days, weeks, or other long periods of time and usually is accompanied by changes in weight, sleep, appetite, and mood.
Dealing With Depression: Symptoms
Depression Symptoms: Mood/ Cognitive
- A feeling of hopelessness, helpless,
- Mood swings
- Intense sadness or feeling “empty”
- Loss of interest
- Loss of pleasure
- Thoughts of suicide
- Repetitive thoughts
- Lack of concentration
- A bleak outlook on life
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Depression Symptoms: Behavioral
Depression Symptoms: Physical
- Weight gain
- Emotional eating
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive sleepiness
- Restless sleep
- Unexplainable aches and pains
- Frequent upset stomach
Suicide Signs and symptoms
Suicide and suicidal thoughts are not only associated with depression but can be linked to other mental disorders. If you have any of the following symptoms, you may be at higher risk for suicide.
- Excessive sadness
- Excessive moodiness
- Sleep problems
- Sudden calmness
“Choosing to be alone and avoiding friends or social activities also are possible symptoms of depression, a leading cause of suicide. This includes the loss of interest or pleasure in activities the person previously enjoyed.”– WebMD
- Changes in personality and/or appearance
“A person who is considering suicide might exhibit a change in attitude or behavior, such as speaking or moving with unusual speed or slowness. In addition, the person might suddenly become less concerned about his or her personal appearance.”– WebMD
- Dangerous or self-harmful behavior
- Recent trauma or life crisis
- Threatening Suicide
- Making preparations
“Often, a person considering suicide will begin to put his or her personal business in order. This might include visiting friends and family members, giving away personal possessions, making a will, and cleaning up his or her room or home. Some people will write a note before committing suicide. Some will buy a firearm or other means like poison.”– WebMD
Finding a therapist
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, a therapist will be able to help you and can give you more resources or tools for recovery.
Are you nervous about going to see a therapist? Don’t worry, you still have options.
If dealing with depression is making it hard for you to get out of bed, you can talk to a therapist in your pajamas, from the comfort of your own home.
Today’s technologically enhanced world allows you the opportunity to talk with a licensed therapist through phone calls, online chats, or mobile apps. Such options include Talk Space, Better Help, Regain, Teen Counseling, and Break Through.
You can also set up a Skype or regular phone call with a therapist who does telehealth appointments. By visiting Psychology Today you can search for providers in your area. Once you put in your geographic area, on the left-hand side there is an option to search for providers who offer online services.
Living life with depression is hard enough. Don’t try to tackle it all on your own.
The National Network of Depression Centers also keeps a list of online resources that could be helpful.
To get more understanding about dealing with depression, watch this video called, “I had a blag dog, his name was depression” from the World Health Organization.
If you’re looking for more ways to help you deal with depression, the National Institute of Mental Health also gives great explanations about medication and other therapies that can be helpful for someone dealing with depression.