Feeling down or experiencing sadness is a normal part of life, but when these things persist and start to interfere with your daily life, they may indicate depression. But how can you tell the difference between everyday stress, which is especially common in today’s world, and true depression? It all starts by recognizing the signs and symptoms of depression. If you notice that you are experiencing some of these symptoms, you can schedule an appointment with your doctor and get support. Without intervention, depression can worsen and lead to substance use, impaired functioning, poor physical health and interpersonal conflicts. 

Understanding Depression 

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a common but serious mood disorder that affects how you think, feel and handle daily activities. Nearly 30 percent of adults have been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives, and 18 percent are currently experiencing the disorder. While depression can happen at any time, it’s most likely to develop in your late teens or early 20s. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe depending on the person. 

While it’s normal to experience the blues from time to time, depression requires a number of symptoms to occur for most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks. There should also be a clear change in your day-to-day functioning, such as having trouble at work or in school. Identifying depression early on is crucial, as this condition is treatable. 

Common Signs and Symptoms of Depression

Here are the common signs and symptoms of depression:

• Persistent sadness or low mood. Feeling sad, empty or hopeless most of the day, nearly every day. A pervasive sense of sadness can make it difficult to enjoy the things you once did.
• Loss of interest or pleasure. Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities, hobbies and social interactions. These things now feel uninteresting or even burdensome.
• Sleep disturbances. Sleeping too much or too little. Poor sleep quality can exacerbate the symptoms of depression. 
• Changes in appetite. Losing weight or gaining weight due to changes in your appetite. What you eat can also affect your overall health and energy levels. 
• Fatigue or low energy. Feeling tired nearly every day, even with adequate rest. This fatigue can make daily tasks feel overwhelming and decrease your productivity.
• Feelings of worthlessness. Feeling worthless or guilty, or simply over-criticizing yourself. These feelings can lead to negative self-image and impact your job and relationships. 
• Trouble concentrating. Having a hard time focusing, making decisions or remembering things. This can interfere with work, school and daily functioning.
• Physical symptoms. Experiencing unexplained aches, pains, headaches or digestive issues. These physical symptoms can persist despite treatment for other medical conditions. 
• Restlessness. Feeling restless or agitated, or conversely, having slowed speech or movements. In many cases, these changes are noticeable to others.
• Thoughts of death or suicide. Thinking about death, suicide or self-harm. If you are having these thoughts, take them seriously and seek support. 

Depression Treatment in Easton, PA

It’s important to know that help is available for treating depression. This condition responds well to medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. If you have been self-medicating with drugs or alcohol, look for a recovery center that offers dual diagnosis treatment. This way, you can treat both the substance use and depression simultaneously for the best results. Recovery Cove offers dual diagnosis care for those experiencing depression and substance use. Contact our team today at 484-549-COVE to learn more about our programs and how we can help you achieve a  full recovery.