Depression is becoming increasingly rampant in our society today hence the need why we need to normalise conversations around mental health. There are many signs that can point towards depressive behaviour like sleeping too much or too little, a lack of interest in social gatherings and negative thoughts.
Asides these popular signs, there are other signs of a depressive disorder you should know about and they are listed below.
You’re more irritable than usual.
If you find yourself on a constant short fuse and snapping out at your friends and family, then there might be an issue. If issues that will normally not bother you now come across as irritating, then you may be having a symptom of depression.
Extreme feelings of nostalgia
If you are pining for a period of your life that isn’t quite the same, it may be the beginning of plunging into sadness. According to psychologist Dr. Sal Raichbach. “A depressed person might feel great for years but then plunge back into their sadness when a loss or a major life change occurs. Fun times in the past help them feel better temporarily.”
You’re constipated.
Research shows that constipation and depression are linked. In fact, according to a 2011 report, 33 percent of constipated people studied showed signs of major depressive disorder. So if you’re dealing with this frustrating bathroom issue, consider talking to your doctor about the possibility of depression as a cause.
You find downtime extremely stressful.
Most adults look forward to having free time because then it means relaxation but if a downtime prospect is leaving you with feelings of anxiety then you are possibly suffering from depression.
Finding it hard to concentrate
Poor concentration is sometimes misread or misdiagnosed as ADHD, especially when providers are unaware that it’s negative thoughts getting in the way of your ability to focus.
Feelings of impulsiveness
If you are engaging in impulsive behaviour like impulse buying, it might be that something’s up with your mental health.
You’re having weird aches and pains.
Abnormal brain function causes depression as they experience unexplained physical pain. This is especially problematic because it can prevent patients from getting a correct diagnosis — since many doctors will start by treating the physical symptoms rather than looking into possible mental health issues.
You feel guilty about everything.
The American Psychological Association (APA) considers “inappropriate and excessive guilt” a symptom of depression. That’s defined by misinterpreting “neutral or trivial day-to-day events as evidence of personal defects and [having] an exaggerated sense of responsibility for untoward events.”
Feelings of not being good enough
A major sign of depression is a persistent feeling of failure and “not being good enough”. If you find yourself constantly feeling like you are a failure, you should seek expert help.
Your personal hygiene is taking a back seat
When you’re feeling totally overwhelmed, exhausted, and you’re isolating yourself from others, your motivation to care for yourself can drop off completely.
