The 5 Warning Signs of Depression Everyone Should Know About

1. Inability to Concentrate

Almost everyone experiences some brain fog and forgetfulness. However, people who live with depression often experience an extreme lack of focus. The lack of focus is often so bad that the person becomes unable to perform their everyday duties at work and home. There may be periods when the person makes more mistakes than usual or has trouble making decisions.

2. Unexplained Pain

Depression does not only affect a person’s mental health. It can also have a negative impact on a person’s physical well-being. For example, common warning signs of depression are the physical symptoms of unexplained aches and pains. A recent study on symptoms of depression shows that 69% of people who meet the criteria for a depression diagnosis first visit their doctors for unexplained aches and pains. The most common complaints include joint pain, bloating, and backaches.

3. Changes in Appetite

Depression can have a significant impact on a person’s appetite. For some people, depression can cause them to eat more, while for other people, depression may cause a significant decrease in their appetites. Regardless of how depression affects a person’s appetite, a change in appetite is a symptom that can have a negative impact on a person’s physical well-being. Even if someone manages to lose weight during a period of depression, this occurrence is not a healthy form of weight loss. Note that some people may experience an increase in appetite and weight gain as a result of depression.

4. Moodiness and Irritability

Just because someone has a snappy attitude does not mean that they are depressed. However, heightened or unexplained irritability is another sign of possible depression. If little things set off a person or the person gets agitated more often than usual, the person may suffer from depression.

A person’s moodiness and irritability can lead to thoughts of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or the desire to cause harm to another person. If a person experiences any of those feelings, they should get immediate help from a health professional. If a person is in immediate danger, one should always call 911.

5. Too Much or Too Little Sleep

Another warning sign of depression is not getting enough sleep or getting too much sleep. It is important to note that sleep disorders, such as insomnia, do not cause depression. However, sleep disorders can play a significant role in mood fluctuations and instability.