In a time when people are expected to be joyful, cheery, and all smiles, a silent majority are suffering from depression. Afraid to seek help because of the social stigma associated with having a mental illness, some may not even realize they have depression. Instead, these people think they’re in a rut and will soon pass.
Depression is the silent killer and no one knows when or who it will strike. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 6.7% of the U.S. population age 18 and older are effected by it. What can we do? How can we help? Here are a few warnings signs for depression:
- Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters
- Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies, or sports
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
- Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort
- Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
- Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
- Slowed thinking, speaking, or body movements
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures, or self-blame
- Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
- Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
- Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches
If you are feeling generally miserable or unhappy without really knowing why, please talk to your doctor. If you are reluctant to seek treatment, talk to a friend or loved one, a faith leader, or someone else you trust.