Knowing The Signs & Symptoms Of Depression Changed My Life

I started therapy at the age of 21, that was when I started being more intentional and aware of the signs and symptoms of depression. The first 2-3 years were spent monitoring and documenting my thoughts, moods patterns, triggers, and energy levels.

At 26, with the support of 6 psychologists, 1 psychiatrist, and 4 years of therapy, I had to muster up the courage to seek a clinical diagnosis. When I received my diagnosis, I was honestly relieved. Knowing that I had Major Depressive Disorder and General Anxiety Disorder, has allowed me to understand the way my mind and body works.

Here are more signs and symptoms that I realized in my journey (the first onset started at 11 years old)

• Decreased energy and fatigue. Specifically low moods.

• Loss of interest and pleasure in hobbies and activities.

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood

• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts

• Feelings of hopelessness

Being aware of the signs and symptoms that show up mentally, physically, and emotionally has been life-changing for me. The moment I chose to deeply care for myself was a turning point in my life where I was able to show up as my best self each day. While each day isn’t as bright and gold as I’ll like it to be, I know that I am doing my best and that the person that I am is enough.

I hope that by sharing, you know that you are not alone. Xx

More About Depression

Depression (major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.

f you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood

• Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism

• Irritability

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities

• Decreased energy or fatigue

• Moving or talking more slowly

• Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

• Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping

• Appetite and/or weight changes

• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts

• Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment

Not everyone who is depressed experiences every symptom. Some people experience only a few symptoms while others may experience many. Several persistent symptoms in addition to low mood are required for a diagnosis of major depression, but people with only a few – but distressing – symptoms may benefit from treatment of their “subsyndromal” depression. The severity and frequency of symptoms and how long they last will vary depending on the individual and his or her particular illness. Symptoms may also vary depending on the stage of the illness.

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