Depression is a disorder that for many can feel overwhelming and impossible to overcome. Depression is the constant feeling of sadness that can start affecting how you act, go about your daily activities, and interact with others. On top of making you feel ambivalent to previous interests and social engagements, depression can lead to suicidal thoughts and can prove dangerous if left untreated. 

If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of depression, do not feel alone. Depression is a very common mental disorder with nearly 300 million people suffering each year. A global cause of disability, depression is treatable with the help of a licensed therapist.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Depression?

The unfortunate thing about depression is that it can take a while to diagnose. It differs from usual mood fluctuations and short-lived responses to life’s stressors. Depression is a chronic and ongoing condition in which that feeling of dread or despair never seems to pass.

Here are the symptoms of depression:

• A constant feeling of sadness and hopelessness
• Getting upset over little things in short, angry bursts
• Body aches that are unexplainable 
• Losing interest in activities (sports, time with friends, and even being intimate)
• Sleeping too much – feeling as if you can’t get out of bed and that small tasks are too much to handle
• A loss of sleep – experiencing insomnia
• Excessive eating
• A loss of appetite
• Inability to remember things or concentrate on tasks
• A feeling of restlessness and anxiety
• Slowed body movements
• Fixated on previous failures and an overall mindset of self-doubt about one’s worth
• Frequent thoughts of suicide

Depression Symptoms in Teens and Children

Depression is not just observed in adults. It is also common in teenagers and may even be seen in children as young as four. Depression can manifest itself in children as sadness, clinginess, aches, irritability, being underweight, and not wanting to go to school.

Teenagers can experience depression as sadness, negative thoughts, irritability, poor performance in school, feelings of being misunderstood, recreational drug use, excessive eating and sleeping, self-harm, and loss of interests. 

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of depression, you should seek medical treatment. Depression is a serious and very real condition that can be helped with professional help. If comfortable, it’s also important to reach out to a loved one and let them know what you are experiencing. 

Depression takes many forms. Sadly, there are many individuals experiencing depression and unaware of its long-term consequences if left untreated. If you are in the Winnipeg area and experiencing depression, you can find a licensed and trained professional to help at My Winnipeg Therapist.