Depression: 5 early signs

Depression rings warning bells long before we see the classic signs in all their glory. According to a clinical psychologist, there are certain symptoms that should alert us to seek the help of a specialist.

Until a few years ago, not many years ago, we wanted to believe that depression would never touch us, that we had the sun, the sea and friends to keep us away from the «American» obsession of psychotherapy. Plus, we all know at least one person who has suffered from depression.

The World Health Organization classifies depression as the most common third most common disease worldwide. In fact, it predicts that by 2030, it will have taken the lead. A sad statement.

Differentiations and specialisation

The bad news is that the manifestations of the disease are becoming increasingly subtle, specific and often indistinguishable. They are becoming differentiated. Both the «workaholic» co-worker and the «lazy» friend can have depression. The extroverted «soul of the group» and the best friend who doesn't answer the phone can also be depressed.

The good news, according to a study in the journal Nature Medicine, is that specialised MRI scans will be able to detect different neurological types of depression. Thus, appropriate treatment will be recommended. Until then, however, we must rely on the empirical observation of patients' symptoms.

Classic symptoms of depression

So far, low mood, anhedonia (when nothing gives you pleasure) and long-term fatigue are the most common, «official» features of the disease. If you suspect you have depression, you can do a quick test (from the book «Overcoming Depression», by Paul Gilbert).

Take the test

Do you have at least 1 of the following?;

• Bad mood for a long time
• A marked decrease in interest or pleasure

Do you have at least 4 of the following?;

• Decrease or increase in appetite and body weight
• Sleep disturbances
• Psychomotor stimulation or slowing down
• Loss of energy and daily feeling of fatigue
• Feelings of unworthiness and guilt
• Concentration difficulties
• Thoughts of death and suicidal ideation

If you are at 1+4 or more «yes», there are good indications that depression has visited you.

Five «unusual» types of depression

Psychologist Ellen Hendriksen, a doctoral student at Boston University, sheds light on five other, lesser-known and more common forms of the disease, which she describes as «informal». What are they?;

1. Morning melancholy

This category includes patients who find the start of the day unbearable. They are accompanied by an intense and unchanging feeling of futility. As the hours pass, the bad mood improves to a small extent.

2. Anxiety disorder

Depression is not just about sadness. Behind it, there can be a constant worry about what might go wrong in all areas. This worry drains the psyche. Experts stress that sometimes intense and long-term anxiety can be a precursor to depression, since it usually occurs two years before.

3. Prolonged trauma

According to research, about half of those who have experienced PTSD develop depression. Interestingly, those who have experienced interpersonal trauma (such as bullying or involvement in a war) are more likely to experience depression as well. Those who have experienced a natural disaster are more «safe» because their faith in human nature has not been shaken.

4. Incomplete restoration of a loss

The death of a loved one or a separation are significant losses that trigger the grieving process. But when recovery is hindered or «covered up» by the patient, it can lead to the onset of depression. Distress and disturbances in sleep and eating are common symptoms of this situation.

5. The aftermath of a failure

Losing a job, failing exams, and even the feeling of a failed marriage can act as a catalyst for depression. In these cases, the most common symptom is extreme fatigue. Patients repeat the phrase «I just can't!» and what's worse is that they feel it.

The importance of correct diagnosis

It is important to remember that depression can have many faces. Each person is as unique as their psyche. More importantly, however, is that only a psychiatrist can and should make the diagnosis. What we read may help us, but not find out what we are suffering from, nor offer a cure.

The depression Located at. If you suspect that you may be suffering, see a specialist. Only he or she can suggest a method that can help you.