Introduction
Depression and depressive disorder are both frequent mental illnesses. It involves a persistently downcast attitude or loss of enjoyment or enthusiasm in activities. Depression is distinct from typical mood swings and everyday feelings. It can have an impact on all facets of life, including interactions with friends, family, and the local community. It may be the cause of or a symptom of issues at work and in the classroom. Any person can experience depression. Depression is more likely to occur in people who have experienced abuse, significant losses, or other stressful situations. Depression is more common in women than in males.
Having Trouble Getting Out of Bed
Enjoying a leisurely morning nap or time in bed is very natural. On the other hand, it may indicate depression if it has become difficult to muster the will to get out of bed or get ready in the morning. Even simple actions, such as getting out of bed in the morning or taking a shower, can become physically and mentally draining when we are depressed.
Sleeping Patterns
Our sleep patterns may be impacted by the physical and mental weariness that comes with depression. A variety of symptoms might appear when sleep patterns change. This might sometimes mean sleeping all day, utilising sleep to pass the time, or choosing to sleep over other everyday tasks.
It can sometimes be challenging to get asleep or stay asleep at night when there have been changes in sleep patterns. Our anxiety levels can rise and our feelings of anguish can become more intense when we don’t get enough restorative, quality sleep. This can occasionally set off a vicious cycle whereby our nervous thoughts keep us up at night and interfere with our ability to fall asleep, which in turn triggers additional anxiety.
Loss of Focus and Interest
It may be an indication of depression if you or a loved one suddenly loses interest in activities that you formerly enjoyed. For instance, if you’re a sports fanatic who lives for the game, all of a sudden sports aren’t making you happy. If you enjoy dancing, playing the guitar, the piano, or painting and all of a sudden these activities no longer bring you any joy, this sudden lack of interest and inability to find joy in previously enjoyable activities could be a sign of depression.
Appetite Changes
Depression can also have an effect on our appetite and eating behaviors. While some people may have an increased appetite, others may have decreased appetites or not even feel hungry. You might also notice changes in your eating habits if you are observing changes in your sleeping patterns, such as those mentioned above. This is due to the fact that sleep controls our appetite hormones, preventing us from overeating or undereating.
Energy Levels Rise
Ironically, sad people may get much more energised once they have decided to do something severe, like killing themselves. This is because they are relieved to have reached a conclusion, thus it’s really concerning if you see a significant change like this in a loved one. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), this can also show up as reckless behaviour, especially in men, such as engaging in unsafe sexual activity, overspending, or abusing drugs or alcohol.