10 ways to tell if you or a loved one is depressed E-mail


Depression is something we all hear about and, even in this day and age, some of us try to hide it. You may have had possible signs yourself and wondered if there are ways to tell if you might be depressed. The biggest question, though, is probably, "What can you do about it?"

Fortunately, there are ways to tell if what you're experiencing is depression, and there are things you can do about it.

  1. Feeling helpless or hopeless a negative outlook thinking that things will only get worst and no matter what you do your situation will never change. The way you are thinking might be related to depression.

  2.  Concentration problems Not able to focus or give one thing your attention, wandering thoughts may mean you are depressed.

  3.  Loss or lack of interest Having no interest in things that were enjoyable to you at one time. Hobbies, Sex, basically anything that use to bring you enjoyment.

  4. Changes in appetite Loss in appetite (not eating), gain in appetite (overeating) excessive weight loss/gain, more then a few pounds a month might be caused by depression.

  5. Changes in Sleep patterns having trouble sleeping, waking up unexpectedly feeling tired all day from lack of sleep may be because you feel depressed.

  6. Feeling overly excited/tired during the day feeling very hyper or completely drained might be a sign of depression.

  7. Lack of energy even the smallest task becomes a job, your body may hurt and your muscles almost like flu like symptoms you may just feel extremely drained and not know why.

  8. Self hatred hating everything physically about yourself, not wanting to shower loss of total interest in appearance, negative, critical about yourself and people in general might be a sign of depression.

  9. Anger, aggression, reckless behavior, alcohol/drugs.

  10. Over excessive work or hobbies, putting in to many hours obsessing on that one particular thing

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What Can I Do About It?

 CALL If you feel you might be depressed, the first thing to do is talk to your family doctor about it. They can lead you to the right place to get help. Or, if you're familiar with mental health centers in your area, call one of them.

Many mental health centers and hospitals have free or sliding scale payments to make treatment for depression affordable to all. Don't ever feel that you're alone! The faster you get help, the faster you'll begin to heal.

If you feel you may suffer from depression, get some help, or trust in a friend who can help you.

After an evaluation, your health provider can guide you through relaxation techniques, depression medications, talk therapy, or even group therapy. There are many ways to relieve your suffering. Be sure to take advantage of them, for your sake, and for those you love.