Signs of Depression. Depression is a common mental illness that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be concerning as it can eventually take a toll on the person’s overall well-being, relationships, and daily activities. While depression can affect anyone, it can affect each person differently. In this article, we will explore some common signs of depression in various groups, including women, men, postpartum women, and teens.
Signs of Depression in Women
Depression affects women at a higher rate than men, and can have a significant impact on their lives. While some symptoms of depression are similar across genders, there are specific signs of depression in women that are worth exploring.
One of the most common signs of depression in women is persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Women with depression often feel emotionally drained, and struggle to find joy in activities they once enjoyed. They may also experience feelings of guilt and worthlessness, which can aggravate their depression symptoms. Changes in appetite and weight are also common signs of depression in women. Some women may experience an increase in appetite and weight gain, while others may experience a loss of appetite and weight loss.
Sleep disturbance is another sign of depression in women. Women with depression may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, leading to daytime fatigue and irritability. Alternatively, some women may oversleep as a way of escaping their negative thoughts and feelings. Physical symptoms such as headaches, chronic pain, digestive issues, and other physical symptoms are also common physical symptoms of depression in women.
Finally, depression in women can also manifest as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that affects approximately 5% of women. Symptoms of PMDD include severe mood swings, anxiety, and depression, which can occur before and during a woman’s menstrual cycle.
Signs of Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression is a type of depression that affects women after giving birth. Some common signs of postpartum depression include feelings of sadness, anxiety, and irritability, changes in appetite and weight, difficulty sleeping, and a lack of interest in the baby. Postpartum depression can affect a woman’s ability to care for herself and her baby and can lead to long-term consequences if left untreated.
Signs of Depression in Men
Depression in men is often overlooked. The symptoms of depression in men can be different from that of a woman. Men with depression may experience irritability and anger instead of sadness. They may become easily frustrated and have mood swings that are unpredictable. They may also exhibit aggressive behavior, such as yelling or slamming doors, and may become confrontational with others. Men may also engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse and gambling.
Other signs of depression in men include physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive problems, and chronic pain. These symptoms may not respond well to traditional treatments and may persist even with medication. They may also experience changes in appetite and weight, as well as difficulty sleeping and fatigue.
Signs of Depression in Teens
Depression in teenagers is a growing concern today. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), in the United States alone, an estimated 3.2 million adolescents aged 12 to 17 had at least one major depressive episode in 2019.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), teens with depression are more likely to engage in substance abuse. In 2019, an estimated 7.1 million adolescents aged 12 to 17 reported using alcohol, and 4.2 million reported using illicit drugs.
Depression can have a significant impact on the academic performance of children, because of its negative impact on concentration, memory, cognitive skills and motivation.