How to Identify Depression
A nationwide study found that 1 in 16 people in Singapore (aged 18 years & above) has experienced major depression sometime in their lives¹. While all of us may have loosely said, ‘I’m depressed’ at times when we were feeling down, depression in its real sense is one of the most common mental health issues that seriously impacts the lives of those afflicted by it. In this article, learn more about the definition of ‘the real depression’ and how to recognize it if it happens to yourself or others around you.
What is depression?
Depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in most activities. It can also negatively impact a person’s thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical health.
While it is usually triggered by a highly challenging or stressful life event, such divorce, loss of employment or a major illness; at other times it could creep in more subtly, such as following months of being stressed or burnt out at one’s job. It could also happen out of the blue with no apparent reason, when everything seems fine in the person’s life.
How is someone with depression like?
The following are some of the common signs and symptoms of depression. If someone around you exhibits them for a prolonged period, he or she might be experiencing depression.
Disclaimer: The symptoms of depression vary person-to-person, and it needs to reach a certain level of severity to constitute a disorder. Please do not use the following information as a diagnostic tool for anxiety.
Other Signs & Symptoms of Depression
When conversing, the person may …
- Speak minimally and/or slowly, with a flat tone of voice
- Be slower to respond
- ‘Space out’ during conversations
He or she may also say things such as …
In regards to behaviour, he or she may …
- Have trouble getting out of bed and lay in bed most of the day
- Refuse to eat or eat non-stop
- Appear restless
- Appear to be in his or her own world
- Lack of Responsiveness towards Others
- Smoke and/or drink (alcohol) more
- Avoid social situations
- Stay at home the whole day
Do you or someone you know needs help with depression?
If yourself or a loved one might be struggling with depression, we recommend reaching out to a professional for further assessment and treatment. With the right guidance, support and time, most people with depression do manage to get out of it and reclaim their normal selves once again.
References
1https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8061188/
