Believe it or not we all go through it. Depression is something that hits with no warning for some and for others it's something that never goes away; it never leaves us alone, but you know what? It is perfectly normal. The most important thing to realize with depression is that YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Many people become depressed for many different reasons: whether it's a recent loss in the family, a death of a pet, a bad grade in school, or just a bad day. Sometimes we don't even know why we become depressed, we just do. Below is a list of signs and symptoms and ways you just might be able to save a life.
How to recognize the symptoms of depression:
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Inability to concentrate or indecisiveness
- Insomnia (inability to sleep) or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping)
- Significant weight loss or weight gain
- Recurring thoughts of death or suicide
The different types of depression:
- Major depression
- Chronic depression
- Bipolar depression
- Seasonal depression
- Psychotic depression
What is major depression?
Major depression is defined as a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness as well as a constant lack of interest. Major depressive disorder is the most common type of depression in the U.S affecting more than 15 million American adults which is about 6.7% of the U.S. population.
What is chronic depression?
Also known as Dysthymia, is a mild but long term form of depression that has the same symptoms of major depression but unlike major depression, Dysthymia last alot longer.
What is bipolar depression?
Bipolar depression is a disorder associated with mood swings of depressive lows and manic highs. The symptoms of bipolar depression are similar but not the same to major or even chronic depression. With bipolar depression you may struggle to get out of bed, you may find yourself eating too much or too little, you might also notice yourself forgetting things or having a hard time remembering. Bipolar depression can be helped by a medical professional but it also has no cure.
What is Seasonal Depression?
Seasonal depression also known as SAD (seasonal affective disorder) is a mood disorder that occurs at the same time every year. For some people, including me, it occurs during the winter months, especially during the holidays. SAD is the usually resolved by talking with family and friends or even a therapist.
What is Psychotic Depression?
Psychotic depression is a very serious type of major depression that includes some form of psychosis. The psychosis could be hallucinations, delusions, schizophrenia, dementia or even delirium. People with psychosis are considered to be “out of touch with reality.” They may “hear voices” or have strange or illogical ideas. Psychotic depression affects about 1 out of 4 people admitted to the hospital for depression.
What should you do if you or someone you know is depressed?
Take action and get help! Yes, it may be hard and it may seem strange but being depressed is normal. Depression can be treated by medication, talk therapy, or sometimes both. Find some support. It could be a friend, family member, or faith leader, but find someone you trust and talk to them, they can more than likely help. Get active! Studies have shown that being physically active can reduce levels of stress and help you feel healthier.
Get help immediately if you or someone you know is thinking of committing suicide.
- To get help you or someone you know can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
- If someone is in immediate danger, call 911
