Pretty much everyone feels sad or depressed sometimes. But when negative emotions keep you from leading a normal life, it’s time to seek medical help. Depression is not a weakness but a treatable illness that afflicts 1 in 10
adults nationwide, WebMD said.
“If you think you might be depressed, don't try to tough it out,” WebMD said, adding that untreated symptoms of depression may last for months or years, causing immeasurable suffering and possibly leading to suicide.
Here are some signs that it may be time to get treatment, according to WebMD,
Everyday Health and
HelpGuide.org:
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1. You feel a sense of helplessness, worthlessness and/or guilt.
2. You find yourself eating too much or too little. “A weight gain or loss of more than 5 percent of your body weight in one month is one of the warning signs of depression,” Everyday Health said. “Some people experience a loss of interest in food, while for others food becomes a way of compensating for feelings of depression.”
3. Sleeping too much, not being able to fall asleep or waking up too early in the morning can all be signs of depression.
4. You experience persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety or emptiness.
5. You’re drinking more alcohol than usual and/or otherwise acting in a reckless manner.
6. You can’t control your negative thoughts, no matter how hard you try.
7. You’ve lost interest in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed, including sex.
8. You’re much more irritable, short-tempered or aggressive than usual
9. You experience physical symptoms of depression, which WebMD said can include cramps, headaches, persistent aches or pains, or digestive problems that don’t ease.
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10. You have difficulty making decisions, remembering details and concentrating.
11. You feel tired all the time.
12. You’ve been thinking about suicide, and perhaps even attempted it.
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