Symptoms of depressionLet’s talk about symptoms of depression today. Here are some that I found out researching the internet and to be honest, I did find myself in one or more of those “categories”.

Depressed mood
Well, this one is obvious. The feeling of hopelessnes, saddnes, being discouraged or feeling empty. Yes, these thing occured to me in the past.

Loss of interest or pleasure
When you’re unable to experience pleasure. Nothings seems to interest you anymore, for example your former hobbies like skiing, watching movies or going out with your friends and having fun. Also the lost of sexual desires are one of those symptoms.

Appetite or weight changes
When you gain weight or lose weight fast. For example more than 5% up or down in a month. Guess I don’t have such kind of issues, been steady at my weight.

Sleep changes
Insomnia or oversleeping (also known as hypersomnia). Now that happens for me a lot lately. I wake up in the morning at 6 am, but I work at home so that wouldn’t be neccessary. But it happens and I therefore lack of sleep the whole day, feeling without energy.

Fatigue or loss of energy
Physically drained. Even small tasks are exhausting. Can’t do things as quickly as you used to.

Self-loathing
Strong feelings of worthlessness or guilt. Harsh criticism of perceived faults and mistakes.

Concentration problems
Inability to focus. Difficulty making decisions. Can’t “think straight.” Memory problems.

Irritability
Grouchy, easily annoyed, and frustrated by little things. Angry outbursts.

Aches and pains
Depression can cause or exacerbate many physical symptoms, including headaches, backaches, diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, and aching joints.

It’s obvious that if you have one or two of these symptoms, you’re not depressed. Just in a bad mood or having a bad week. But if you have more than 80% of these, I guess it’s time to start working on yourself to get better. Exercise, better eating habbits and social contacts! Plus lots of sun.