Depression is a serious mental disorder not to be confused with “normal” bad or depressed mood experienced by everyone sometimes. If a depression sufferer does not realise that he is depressed his life may be virtual hell without any obvious exit scenario. Many such patients drag along for years without treatment that could easily alleviate their depression. Therefore, it is very important to know the symptoms of depression and to be able to read the signs of depression when they occur. An early realisation that one experiences the symptoms of depression can in the most extreme cases virtually save lives, and even in light cases of depression often guarantee proper treatment of the disorder and a reversion to a good and joyful life. So what are the signs of depression most commonly seen?

One of the common signs of depression is a general loss of energy leading to persistent lethargy and to a lack of interest in most daily activities or even ones that one previously liked, such as hobbies. This goes often also hand in hand with social withdrawal. Another symptom of depression, probably the one most often associated with this mental disorder, is a deep and prolonged sadness, commonly without any apparent cause, which may even lead to unexplainable crying spells. Feelings of worthlessness and guilt without a rational cause are also usual signs of depression. The depressed patient also suffers from a profound pessimism about his own future and the future of his social network and often even the world in general. This is often coupled with a total indifference towards almost anything and anyone. Indecisiveness and an inability to concentrate properly on tasks at hand are also symptoms of depression that occur regularly. The depressed patient may have problems to fall asleep and to keep sleeping without waking up in the middle of the night, leading to permanent sleepiness during the day. Interestingly there are also cases where the patient sleeps more than usual. Another, though relatively minor, symptom of depression is loss of appetite. Among the most serious signs of depression is obsessive thinking of disease and death, and even suicidal thoughts, which in the worst case may lead to suicide attempts. Anxiety is also often associated with depression as is a general irritability and agitation. Besides those more well-known signs and symptoms of depression organic diseases are often associated with depression. Patients suffering from unexplainable organ pains are sadly often treated purely for the organic disease, while the underlying cause may well be depression or another mental disorder.

Concluding it must be pointed out that one does not necessarily need to experience all symptoms of depression to be regarded depressed. Also, the intensity of the symptoms of depression may vary over time and from patient to patient, also depending on the kind of depression she has. In any case, if you or anyone you know shows all or more of the signs of depression listed above it is definitely advised to take action sooner rather than later. To get a proper diagnosis of the condition the first way should lead to a medical practitioner who will also be able to verify the symptoms of depression and to advise on the best treatment for the specific depression case. Always keep in mind: Depression is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, but there are many highly effective ways available to treat it once it is properly diagnosed.