Information on Signs and Help

This article is concerned with a very serious topic: the signs & symptoms of depression. After reading, if you feel that you or your partner may be suffering from this condition, please seek help.

"I feel empty and hollow inside."

"I have no energy or motivation to do anything anymore."

"I have no interest in activities I once enjoyed."

While the quotes above are all slightly different, each of the individuals is describing of the same problem - depression symptoms.

You may think that depression is not a realistic danger for you or your partner. Everyone feels unhappy sometimes maybe due to school, work, an argument, etc. - depression is something that only happens to other people, right? ...Right?

Depressive disorders affect approximately 9.5% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year. (1 out of every 10 people)

As you can see, depression is a real problem that touches practically everyone in some fashion - if not by directly experiencing it then via a friend, partner, or relative. Thus, recognizing the signs of depression is a very valuable ability.

But, is it really that bad of a problem?

The dangers of depression:

Loss of health:

Loss of enjoyment: Individuals lose interest in hobbies, activities, and even their sex life.

Weakening of relationships: Individuals experience feelings of seclusion and isolation. Often they can display bouts of aggression.

Increased risk of injury: Individuals can develop unhealthy habits and "releases" - such as "cutting."

Increased risk of suicide: Depression is the cause of over two-thirds of the 30,000 reported suicides in the U.S. each year. (White House Conference on Mental Health, 1999)

signs of depression

...With that said, it should come as no surprise when we say that depression is an extremely dangerous condition.

So what exactly are depression symptoms / warning signs? (You'll notice that they are very closely tied to the dangers described earlier.)

Symptoms of Depression

Loss of appetite or begins over eating
Lack of energy and motivation
Irregular sleep patterns
Feelings of isolation
Feelings of helplessness
Increased consumption of alcohol
Feelings of self-hatred
Feelings of being worthless
Abuse of drugs
Trouble "getting out of bed"
Difficulty concentrating
Easily irritated
Ideas of suicide (Get help for depression immediately: 1-800-273-TALK)

If you or your partner sound like they may be suffering from it, please seek help for depression through your local clinic or via a help hotline such as:

The National Hopeline Network at 1-800-784-2433

Also, check out our article on dealing with depression from a relationship standpoint.

Remember, you are not alone.

Good Luck!