Five Signs You Need Help with Depression

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 16 million adults in the United States have had a major episode of depression at least once in their life. The World Health Organization states that around the world, 350 million people suffer from depression.

With such a massive section of the population suffering from a disorder, you’d think that more people would want to talk about depression and its many symptoms. Yet, with the certain stigma around mental health disorders, not many are aware of the different ways depression can affect you.

Here, we discuss some signs that should help you recognize your depression.

Signs of Depression You May Have Not Noticed

1.      You’ve become Self-Absorbed

Truth be told, it’s really not your fault. You’re trying your hardest not to let your depression overwhelm you. But perhaps because you’re so focused on this aspect of your life, you only end up thinking about yourself, and that makes you look self-absorbed.

Note: If you cannot identify with this sign, think about those around you. When was the last time you asked them about their life in detail? The answer should give you a clue.

2.      You’re Irritable

Even though life has been going fine, you can’t help but feel frustrated and irritated about something. You can’t quite put your finger on it, but there is something in your life that is causing you pain and you want it dealt with. Chances are, that thing you’re frustrated about, it may just be a proxy for some other situation that’s negatively influencing you.

3.      You’re Leaning toward Escapism

Everyone likes to indulge in a bit of escapism from time to time. You may want to watch a TV series, watch movies, play video games or read your favorite choice of literature. But if these activities are taking up more of your time, it’s a sure sign that you may be depressed. Now, if you’re indulging once in a while in a genre or listening to some new music, you’re all right.

4.      You’re Not Paying Attention to Your Home

Your home is your Eden. Therefore, it requires the most TLC. If you’re not even inclined to perform some simple household chores, think back to when this lethargy stated. Your surroundings play a big role in changing your mood. If chores such as grocery shopping or watering the plants are too much, don’t just chalk it up to laziness or exhaustion.

5.      You’re Pessimistic and Negative

Don’t try to push this off as being realistic. There’s a fine line between being a realist and a pessimist, and you know you’re firmly seated in the pessimist zone. Having a negative mindset is not a good thing. If this mindset starts making you think that everything is pointless or that every suggestion being made to you is wrong, that only confirms that you have depression.

What Should You Do if You Have Depression?

If this list of signs resonates, book an appointment with a therapist straight away.

As a licensed therapist in Palo Alto, I’ve worked with so many individuals with anxiety and depression and have helped them open up and deal with their problems effectively.

You must understand that if you are suffering from depression, you are not the only one being affected. Those who love you will not want to see you like this. For their sake, and for your own, consult with a reliable counselor for depression and anxiety therapy. Be willing to work for your mental health and stability.