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How to Monitor Depression

According to the Mayo Clinic, a person who has experienced one episode of depression is at risk for further episodes in his lifetime. Depression is a treatable disease, but it's necessary to monitor the warning signs and symptoms that signal another episode.

  1. Symptoms

    • Watching for the symptoms of depression will help determine if someone is suffering from the illness. A depressed mood, a change in appetite, apathy, disturbed sleep and excessive feelings of guilt are all signs of depression. Other signs include a lack of enjoyment of activities that were once pleasurable, inability to concentrate, indecisiveness, irritability and suicidal thoughts.

    Diagnosis

    • If the signs last for over two weeks, a diagnosis of depression is likely. For a diagnosis of depression, the individual must experience at least five of the symptoms, which should be present continuously, throughout the day, every day, with little respite. Furthermore, these symptoms will interfere with all aspects of the individual's life and prevent them from leading a normal life. A diagnosis of depression should not made if the symptoms are a result of feelings of grief over a tragic loss, which would be the natural response to such an event.

    Treatment

    • The National Institutes of Health states that many people suffering from depression fail to seek help. However, even the most debilitating depression can improve with the correct treatment. Options for treatment include psychotherapy and medication.

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