by Jenny Ince

Created on: December 11, 2008

Recognising the signs of depression: mental & physical alarms (Please note, not all symptoms mentioned hereafter will appear in the order they are noted, but most are felt at one point or another to varying degrees.)

One of the foremost dangers of depression is in not recognising the symptoms that define it from stress or unhappiness. At the forefront of this are those with no previous experience of depression, and therefore no vital barometer. Quite simply stress, or feeling stressed, can be defined as periods of irritability, feelings of being under pressure and tension, which can then lead to upset or temporary unhappiness. This is not all encompassing!

Should a sense of unhappiness and stress or aniexty be present, especially on a consistent basis for a few weeks or longer, it is likely an indication of depression or the beginning thereof. Feeling fatigued and bad tempered, along with despondent or pessimistic feelings are some of the first few symptoms amongst many, and if not consiously addressed can lead to a steady mental and emotional decline.

The bearer usually progresses to feel that there is no control over their life and that they are overwhelmed by the unfortunate events that appear in their life at that moment. Though some grievences may seem minor to others all are equally devestating to the individual as the mind is unable to process the accumulating sadness. It is common at this stage for sufferers to feel high levels of anxiety and grieving (though at this point, the mind is too irrational to understand the motives). A widely noted result of depression is a recalling of events from the past that have a close, usually painful impact.

The feeling of being wrongly done by and self-pity are a result of low self-esteem, and often sufferers stand defensive against those around them, in many instances being selfish in demands for there own needs and arguements will become an issue with those close to the person. Confrontations with more than one loved one should be an alert to consider behaviour, though denial is a strong trait.

Along with mental symptoms the body will also be affected. Strong signs to look out for include loss of apetite, loss of energy, loss of sex drive and a general lethargy even though in most cases sleep is excessive. Many people feel daily tasks become unbearable and most remain inside where no effort is required socially. Environment suffers from lack of interest and personal hygiene, although not always an issue, becomes less an immediate concern. Other signs include not remebering how time has been spent recently, and in possibly substance abuse or increased alcohol intake.

A stronger and deeper array of negative emotions become openly available when depressed - including insecurity, paranoia, fear, disdain, incomprehension, incompetance of will, personal failure, frustration, self-critism and anger. Signs of chronic illness would include but not be limited to dellusions, hearing voices, living in a fantasy or the past, developing extreme phobias, creating self-involved conspiracies, exhibiting erratic behaviour, violence. However, these are usually established at birth or at a young age and are not likely to be a concern.

A sign of failing mentality is feeling gradually nonchalant and disconnected, and considering suicide. When entertaining self harm this is the last opportunity to seek help. Be it professional, self-provided or pharmaceutical, a daily fight to regain will and stance will repair the fault. Depression is surely an influence not soon forgotten.

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