Is it Sadness or Depression?

August 25, 2017

 

Depression can happen to anyone. You may think of depression as the feelings you experience during tough times, such as a bad break-up or the loss of a loved one. But true depression is a bit different.

Our staff at Healthcare Associates of Texas strive to educate patients on the symptoms of depression and when it may be time to make an appointment to discuss their options.

Here are a few things you should know about depression.

What Is Depression?

Depression is common and affects an estimated 16 million adults in the United States. It changes how you feel, think, and act.

Depression is different than sadness. Symptoms usually last at least two weeks. It may happen on its own, or it may be a symptom of other illnesses.

What Are Common Symptoms?

No two people are affected by depression the same. Depression causes feelings of extreme sadness, but you may have other emotional and physical problems too. It can even interfere with your ability to keep up with your job, school, or home life. Common symptoms of depression are:

Trouble Falling or Staying Asleep

It may be hard to determine if depressive feelings are causing a lack of sleep, or if your lack of sleep is causing you to feel depressed. This is because depression can cause difficulty with sleep, and trouble sleeping can make you feel depressed. Trouble falling asleep, also called insomnia, is a very common symptom of depression. Other sleep problems that are common during depression are difficulty staying asleep, poor quality of sleep, and feeling sleepy during the day after a full night’s rest.

Feelings of Hopelessness

The number one sign of depression is feeling hopeless or helpless. You may also experience feelings of guilt, self-hate, or worthlessness. These feelings are common when you struggle with depression, but you don’t have to feel this way forever.

Lack of Interest

If you have depression, you may get little or no pleasure out of doing activities you once enjoyed. If you struggle to find interest in hobbies, work, or hanging out with friends, this may be a sign of depression.

Mood Swings

Do you often feel like your emotions are attached to a yo-yo? While you may have feelings of sadness most of the time, you may also notice that you struggle with feeling anxious, irritable, tearful, or frustrated.

Change in Appetite

Depression can take the enjoyment out of food too. You may have no appetite and lose weight without trying. The opposite can be true also, causing cravings and weight gain.

Thoughts of Death

Depression doesn’t always lead to thoughts of death, but it can happen. If you are having thoughts of self-harm or hurting someone else, you need to see a doctor right away.

Make an Appointment

Depression can be a scary disease.
If you or a loved one are struggling with these symptoms, call your primary doctor to book an appointment. Our staff is here to help. You don’t have to go through this alone.