Uncovering Subtle Signs of Depression: Identifying Them and Appropriate Actions
Depression, a common mental health disorder, is often associated with feelings of sadness and hopelessness. However, it can manifest in various ways, some of which may be less obvious or less commonly recognised. Here are some of the less typical symptoms of depression that should not be overlooked:
1. Irritability and Anger: Depression can lead to irritability or anger, particularly in men and young adults. This emotional response, often misunderstood as normal, can be a telltale sign of a mood disorder [2][4].
2. Brain Fog and Cognitive Impairment: Difficulties with concentration, decision-making, and memory are common symptoms of depression, often referred to as "brain fog" [1][2].
3. Physical Symptoms: Depression can present physically, causing headaches, stomach upset, or unexplained pains and aches. These symptoms, while not typically associated with mental health, are common in depression [2][1].
4. Changes in Appetite and Sleep: While sleep disturbances are well-known, some people may experience increased appetite or insomnia, which can seem less typical than the usual loss of appetite or oversleeping [1].
5. Social Withdrawal: Pulling away from social activities and friends is a common but often overlooked symptom, particularly in teenagers. It can be mistaken for typical teenage behaviour [4].
6. Restlessness or Agitation: Some individuals may experience restlessness or agitation, feeling unable to relax or sit still, which can be a less obvious symptom of depression [2].
Recognising these symptoms is crucial in identifying and managing depression. It's essential to remember that depression can cause changes in appetite, leading to eating too much or too little [3]. Some people with hidden depression may display irritability and overt or suppressed anger [2].
Negative self-talk, an inner dialogue that is damaging and self-critical, is common in people with depression. In some cases, people with mood disorders may use alcohol or drugs to cope with negative emotions [3]. Depression can also lead to physical pains and health disorders [3].
For those experiencing symptoms of depression, seeking help from a healthcare professional is advised. Sources of help include the ADAA's website and Mental Health America's list of support groups [3]. Other steps to manage depression include reducing stress, improving self-esteem, socialising with others, engaging in enjoyable activities, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and asking for support from loved ones [3].
It's important to remember that depression is a complex condition and can affect individuals differently. Recognising and understanding its less obvious symptoms can help in early detection and effective management.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Depression. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20375438 [2] Harvard Health Publishing. (2019). Depression: What's causing it? https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/depression-whats-causing-it [3] Mental Health America. (2021). Depression. https://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/conditions/depression [4] American Psychological Association. (2019). What is depression? https://www.apa.org/topics/depression
1.Depression, a complex condition, can also lead to physical diseases like hepatitis or type 2 diabetes, as well as cancer, such as NSCLC.
2.Depression is not exclusive to feelings of sadness and hopelessness; it can also cause irritability and anger, particularly in men and young adults, which might be misconstrued as normal.
3.Aq, a predictive science, is crucial in understanding the relationship between mental health and physical diseases, such as the link between depression and conditions like psoriasis or Crohn's disease.
4.Apart from sleep disturbances, depression can cause changes in appetite, leading to eating too much or too little, and this aspect should not be overlooked.
5.Health-and-wellness practices, like exercising regularly and maintaining a balanced diet, can help manage symptoms of depression, such as restlessness or agitation.
6.Depression may manifest in less typical symptoms, such as social withdrawal, particularly in teenagers, which can be mistaken for typical teenage behavior.
7.In cases of depression, it's important to remember that negative self-talk, along with the use of alcohol or drugs to cope with negative emotions, are common and should be addressed in mental health treatment.
