The symptoms of Depression - How to spot the signs

Most people have down days. Whether you’ve lost a loved one, are stressed at work or are having relationship problems, feeling sad sometimes is a normal part of life. However, when the number of down days you’re having start to overtake the good days and you begin losing interest in things you once got enjoyment from, you may be suffering from depression.

The symptoms of depression can be overwhelming and you may feel like you’re losing a grip on life. As it can often creep up on a person slowly over a course of time, it can sometimes be difficult to spot the signs when you are going through it yourself or living with someone who is silently suffering.

Although each person with depression is different, there are a number of warning signs to look out for:

Sadness

Pretending to be happy when you’re not is exhausting. Depression sucks the happiness out of every situation and can make you feel helpless and numb. You may find yourself crying for no reason at all, disconnecting yourself from loved ones and listening to the negative thoughts in your head that say you’re not good enough.

Shame

It can be extremely difficult to admit that you have depression. Many people feel a great deal of shame in admitting that they need help and believe it to be a weakness, often making them unable to ask for the help they so desperately need even if they have hit rock bottom.

Physical symptoms

When the voice in your head is constantly putting you down, it can be extremely difficult to keep up with the demands of life. Fatigue, headaches or digestive problems are just some of the physical symptoms of depression and you may find yourself having days where you’re too tired to get out of bed.

Loss of energy

When you’ve lost enjoyment in life, you may start to feel like there’s no point in carrying out the activities or hobbies that you have always loved. Your energy levels might plummet as a result and you again retreat from the world and people in it.

Lack of confidence

Depression is a massive confidence killer. Not only do you begin questioning your own abilities but you might also start questioning whether you can trust the people around you. A lack of confidence in yourself may lead to you withdrawing from social gatherings, friends and even work commitments.

Self-harm and suicidal thoughts

When you’re feeling low and numb, you might resort to self-harming to make you feel alive or in control of your life again. This type of coping mechanism might make you feel better in the short term, but over a period of time, it becomes dangerous and addictive.

When you can’t see a solution to your problems, you might also find yourself thinking about ending your life, which can be very frightening and a lonely place to be in. If you ever feel like resorting to extreme measures, call an ambulance, go straight to A&E or call the Samaritans for free on 116 123.

How Nurseplus support Mental Health

At Nurseplus, we are passionate about breaking the stigma against mental health. We care about ensuring that those with mental health illnesses get the very best care and support, regardless of age, and try to turn the negative feelings and thoughts that are often associated with mental health, into positive ones. Our dedicated and trustworthy support staff can help those struggling in the community or in specialist establishments.

Other help available

The important thing to remember when you have depression is that there is help available. Whilst it is scary going to a doctor and explaining how you feel, it is their duty to ensure you get the help you need to get back on your feet and enjoy life again, whether through counselling, medication or other methods.

Whether you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one, there are a variety of helplines and charities that offer advice, including:

CALM is the Campaign Against Living Miserably, for men aged 15-35. www.thecalmzone.net

Depression Alliance is a charity for sufferers of depression. Has a network of self-help groups. www.depressionalliance.org

Men's Health Forum offers 24/7 stress support for men by text, chat and email. www.menshealthforum.org.uk

Mental Health Foundation provides information and support for anyone with mental health problems or learning disabilities. www.mentalhealth.org.uk

Mind promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems. Phone: 0300 123 3393 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm) www.mind.org.uk

PAPYRUS is a young suicide prevention society. Phone HOPElineUK 0800 068 4141 (Mon-Fri,10am-5pm & 7-10pm. Weekends 2-5pm) www.papyrus-uk.org

Rethink Mental Illness offers support and advice for people living with mental illness. Phone: 0300 5000 927 (Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm) www.rethink.org

Samaritans provides confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair. Phone: 116 123 (free 24-hour helpline) www.samaritans.org.uk

SANE delivers emotional support, information and guidance for people affected by mental illness, their families and carers.  You can contact them on: 0300 304 7000 (daily, 4.30-10.30pm)  or visit: www.sane.org.uk/supportforum

YoungMinds gives information on child and adolescent mental health. Services for parents and professionals. Phone: Parents' helpline 0808 802 5544 (Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm) www.youngminds.org.uk