A lot of people go about their day-to-day activities and routines without really knowing that they are suffering from depression. They usually think that they are just experiencing the highs and lows of life and that they will be okay. Some even have the feeling that their mental health is at risk but they just do not want to undergo mental health therapy or believe that they can live with it. What they do not know is that depression is a very serious mental health problem that will take a toll on all aspects of your life.

Basically, to know whether you are suffering from depression, check out for the following signs and symptoms

Psychological Symptoms

The psychological symptoms will basically involve your feelings and emotions. It will reflect your mental health a great deal. Watch out for these:

1. Extremely low self-esteem

2. Feelings of anxiety or worry

3. Self-destructive thoughts like suicide

4. Overwhelming sadness

5. Highly irritable and intolerant

6. Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness

7. Lack of interest in life

8. No feelings of satisfaction or fulfillment out of life

Physical Symptoms

The physical symptoms will basically affect your body and it is quite evident that a bad mental state will translate to bad physical health. Watch out for these:

1. Constipation

2. Increased or decreased appetite and consequently increased or decreased weight

3. Difficulty falling asleep or sleeping through the night and waking up earlier than usual

4. Low energy levels

5. Low sex drive

6. A change in your menstrual cycle; either comes early, delays or does not show up entirely

7. Headaches and pains

Social Symptoms

Bad mental health will also interfere with your social life generally and you can judge by the following symptoms:

1. Avoiding people and especially family, friends, relatives, colleagues, and others

2. Finding excuses avoiding any social gathering

3. Lack of interest in your hobbies

4. Not feeling like talking or getting agitated easily when talked to

5. Getting into arguments that are unnecessary

If you are a victim of any of the above-mentioned symptoms, seek help immediately. It has been reported that over 15 million adults from age 18 suffer from depression every year due to the various causes of depressions. If you cannot go to a professional, there are in-house therapy services and available mental health therapy resources for homebound seniors and people that are disabled. Depression is a public health issue and should not be ignored at any given time. Mental health therapy is necessary and vital for the treatment of depression; do not take it lightly. Take care of your mental health.

Sources:

http://www.nhs.uk

https://www.adaa.org