Depression is a serious condition affecting millions of people, yet it is often difficult to diagnose and treat. Many depressed people hesitate to admit their depression, considering it as a sign of weakness or assuming it will pass on its own.

It can be challenging to distinguish between feeling down and experiencing clinical depression. Everyone feels sad at times, especially after a breakup or the loss of a loved one. However, those with depression remain distressed and sad for months or even years. While certain events may trigger depression, it can also appear without a clear reason.

Recognizing depression and seeking treatment if necessary is a vital step in overcoming it and maintaining long-term mental health.

There are many symptoms of depression, and you may not experience all of them. However, if you notice several of these symptoms, you may be suffering from depression. The more severe the symptoms, the more intense the depression.

•  Headaches.

•  Chest pain.

•  Heart palpitations.

•  Unexplained body aches.

•  Slowed movements.

•  Chronic fatigue without an obvious cause.

•  Changes in appetite (loss of appetite or overeating).

•  Disrupted sleep patterns (insomnia, excessive sleep, or waking up too early).

The relationship between depression and physical symptoms can be complex. Depression often causes physical symptoms. However, people who are physically ill, such as those with a heart condition or severe migraines, are more likely to feel depressed.

In addition, people who experience physical symptoms of depression may assume that those symptoms are due to an underlying medical condition, which can make their depression worse. Sometimes an underlying physical condition, such as cancer, is misdiagnosed as depression.

•  Feelings of low self-esteem, worthlessness, or guilt.

•  Feeling hopeless.

•  Loss of sexual desire.

•  Lack of interest in activities.

•  Loss of motivation in life.

•  Preoccupation with death and despair.

There are many types of depression and it can sometimes be classified into three different levels of severity:

•  Mild depression: Your daily life is affected by depression but not significantly. Symptoms appear occasionally although they can be managed. 

•  Moderate depression: Depression significantly interferes with your daily life. Symptoms occur regularly with varying intensity.

•  Severe depression: Depression dominates your daily life. Symptoms are constant and often unbearable. You may also experience hallucinations. 

Depression can appear in many forms. Common conditions associated with depression include:

•  Postpartum depression: Some women experience depression after childbirth.

•  Bipolar disorder: The patient swings between periods of depression and positive moods.

•  Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Known as “winter depression,” which generally appears in the winter months.

•  Grief: Grief can often be confused with depression. Both share many symptoms, and grief can certainly lead to depressive episodes. However, grief is a response to loss while depression is an ongoing condition.

We all understand that taking care of ourselves is not just about physical health—it’s about mental health too.

Depression is a real illness that can affect anyone. While it often improves naturally, seeking help can accelerate recovery. If you believe you are suffering from depression, consult a doctor to receive the appropriate support and treatment.