Recognizing Signs of Depression

Depression is one of the most common psychological problems that people deal with. Almost everyone knows someone that has gone through or is going through some form of depression, if not suffering from some form of depression themselves. Many people suffering from depression don't realize that there is actually a chemical imbalance in their bodies, and they blame it on themselves. Because of this, a lot of people suffering from depression don't get the treatment they need. It's important to look for symptoms of depression, whether in yourself or in the life of a loved one. Here is a list of some of the signs of depression, although it is in no way complete:

• Do you feel continually sad or anxious?
• Are you feeling extremely pessimistic?
• Do you often feel worthless or hopeless?
• Have you recently had a baby?
• Do you often feel "empty"?
• Do you have a hard time sleeping at night?
• Do you often oversleep?
• Have you felt a decrease in the amount of energy you have?
• Do you often feel tired?
• Do you ever have thoughts of injuring yourself (or the desire to injure yourself)
• Has your sex drive decreased?
• Is it hard for you to concentrate, make decisions, or remember things?
• Do you not enjoy the activities that you use to enjoy?
• Do you suffer from headaches or other physical problems, and normal treatment is not helping?
• Have you lost weight? Have you lost your appetite?
• Have you gained weight? Is it hard for you to stop eating?
• Do you have thoughts of death or suicide?

Clinical depression is a very real problem, and if you have any feeling that you may be suffering from it, go to your doctor and talk to him or her about it. He or she will be better able to diagnose you and help you get over your problem. If you feel that a loved one is suffering from depression, try to talk to him or her about it. Offer your support, and encourage him or her to get professional help. Try to comfort and let him or her know that he or she is not to blame. Also, don't try to carry the burden all by yourself. Encourage your loved one to talk to someone else that he or she trusts as well.