Maybe you have been feeling a little blue – but how do you distinquish between a case of the blues and a depression. While you may want to make an appointment with your doctor, it is important to understand the symptoms of depression. Sometimes, when we understand more about a topic, we can find solutions that do not require getting a prescription filled.
If you have ever felt yourself spiraling down into a sad state of mind for no apparent reason, that episode doesn’t necessarily mean that you have depression. True depression does not show up unexpectedly one morning when you get out of bed. True depression takes time to develop, if you are truly struggling with depression and you’re ready and willing to reach out for that help, there is hope and help available.
When depression or anxiety attacks begin to constantly interfere with your work habits, relationships, or your free time, that’s when you will know you could have the onset of depression. The good news is that it’s not a permanent state of living and you can do things to turn these feelings around.
Certainly, you’re not alone when you experience feelings of worry or outbreaks of sadness. Even days when it feels like everything is out of control or you feel like you’re drowning with deadlines that you can’t meet, just know that this happens to pretty much everyone from time to time. When these things are temporary, usually a good meal and a good night’s sleep will have you feeling more chipper in the morning.
Here are 11 symptoms that could signal that you’re going through a state of depression or anxiety that is more than temporary.
1. Sad, negative, and worried thoughts are constantly going through your mind.
2. Friends and family, although meaning well, tell you that you look much more tired than usual.
3. Finding motivation to do everyday tasks makes you tired, and you move slower than normal.
4. Procrastination is high on your list, and the less responsibility you have right now, the better.
5. Socializing is a low priority on your list, and you would rather become a recluse than continue to have to give excuses about why you want to be alone and not participate in social events.
6. An event from your past is gnawing at you and you feel like you’re filled with fear or anxiety. This occurs whether you’re alone or amongst a group of people.
7. You cry for no apparent reason, and it feels like you can’t shake off these emotions.
8. You’re afraid of failing, so you do nothing and make excuses for your absence.
9. Every day feels more hopeless than the day before, and now you don’t want to get out of bed, go to the store, go to school or work, or much less, answer the phone, text someone, or even send an email.
10. You become overly fidgety and can’t seem to sit still, yet you don’t want to do anything.
11. Finally, and this is not an exhaustive list, but you walk around as if you’ve forgotten how to smile or laugh.
In next week’s blog post, we’ll talk about how holidays and seasons can trigger depression, and what you can do to combat your anxious feelings.
How do you deal with life’s minor and major challenges?
If you are struggling with depression Give me a call I will be happy to help!
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