The Sneaky Creep of Depression Posted on June 29, 2023November 4, 2024 by bonmente Feeling down or unmotivated lately? Notice a shift in your mood? COULD IT BE MORE THAN JUST A BAD DAY? Depression isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s more commonly a slow, gradual process that starts with subtle signs and symptoms that, if overlooked, can develop into a more debilitating condition. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to those early warning signs so you can get the help and support needed to prevent depression from taking over your life. Some subtle signs can indicate when someone is slipping into depression. Understanding these early warning signs of depression can help you recognize potential mental health issues and take steps toward seeking professional assistance when necessary. The following five common signs of depression and how they may manifest in our lives can help you better understand if depression could be affecting how you feel right now. YOU’RE OVER OR UNDER-SLEEPING. Have you noticed significant changes in your sleep patterns lately? Depression often disrupts your ability to get a restful night’s sleep. Some individuals may experience insomnia – struggling to fall asleep or waking up frequently at night. On the other hand, oversleeping or feeling excessively tired despite getting enough sleep can also indicate hypersomnia, another sign of depression. Paying attention to your sleep habits and any significant changes can be a valuable clue. YOUR ENERGY IS LOW. Do you feel like you’re dragging yourself through the day? Maybe those simple tasks that used to be a breeze now feel like tasks you’d rather avoid? It could be a sign of depression. This sneaky condition drains our energy levels and blurs the line between being physically tired and feeling persistently drained. Plus, we mentioned how it messes with your sleep patterns, which can affect mood-regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Suddenly, things that you used to enjoy can seem like total buzzkills. While we all have days when we feel tired, depression-related fatigue is a different animal entirely. So if you’re feeling unmotivated, consistently fatigued, or unable to find joy in activities you once found fun, it may be time to talk to someone. YOU’RE STRUGGLING TO KEEP UP… WITH THE BASICS. Depression can zap your energy and motivation, making it difficult to keep up with basic tasks and personal hygiene. If the schedule you used to maintain without a second thought starts to feel impossible, it may be time to take a little personal inventory. Or if you’re skipping things like brushing your teeth, showering, or fixing your hair, depression may be settling in for a visit. “Depression can seriously mess with your concentration and focus, making even the simplest tasks seem impossible to complete,” said Claudette Banda, PMHNP. “This often results in a noticeable drop in productivity at work or school, leaving you frustrated and defeated.” Remember, a slip in hygiene or function is not a reflection of your character or worth! Rather, it’s a symptom of depression affecting your behaviors and daily functioning. YOU’VE BEEN SOCIALLY ISOLATING. When depression hits, you might feel like you can’t handle being around other people. Socializing can feel like a burden, so you cancel plans, skip out on social events, and start avoiding your friends and family. But here’s the thing: isolating yourself can make your depression even worse. If you’re noticing a big dip in your social life or going out of your way to avoid being around others, that’s a sign that you might be dealing with depression. YOU’RE MORE ANXIOUS AND IRRITABLE LATELY. Have you been feeling more anxious lately or overly frustrated with small things? Well, it’s not uncommon for anxiety and depression to tag-team or for depression to show up as aggravation. But don’t worry; discussing your experiences with a healthcare professional is crucial. Since the symptoms overlap, they can help you figure out whether it’s depression, anxiety, or both and then provide the right kind of support. DON’T GUESS… GET DIAGNOSED! If you or someone you know is struggling with these warning signs, the mental health professionals at bonmente can provide a proper diagnosis, guidance, and treatment options. At bonmente, we understand the challenges of living with depression and are here to support you. With our convenient and prompt telepsychiatry services, you can access professional help from the comfort of your own home. Our experienced team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and therapists provide personalized care to address your unique needs. Remember, the sooner you address your mood, the better. Early intervention increases the odds of early remission, so if you’ve noticed any of these early warning signs, reach out to bonmente today and take the first step toward reclaiming your well-being. You deserve support and the opportunity to live a fulfilling life free from depression.