What Are Signs of Stress & Depression?

The symptoms of stress and depression can be very similar. It is important to know what these symptoms are in case someone close to you is suffering from one of these conditions. Too much stress can lead to a nervous breakdown, while depression can often lead to suicide when left untreated.

Physical Symptoms

• The physical symptoms of stress and depression can be the most obvious, especially to someone who is really close to the person who is suffering. Stress and depression can lead to either loss of appetite or overeating which can cause either dramatic weight loss or weight gain. Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much are also physical symptoms that are most often noticed by someone living in the same home as the person.

Psychological Symptoms

• For those suffering from depression, psychological symptoms can include loss of interest in life, feeling of guilt, depressed mood and little or no pleasure from activities once enjoyed. Those with stress may have feelings of anxiety, panic attacks and worry about little things. Both will have a noticeable change in mood and may avoid stressful situations that they would normally have no problem with. In addition both may seem to be more irritable than normal.

Cognitive Symptoms

• Cognitive symptoms of stress and depression can sometimes go unnoticed. The person may have difficulty concentrating on simple tasks. In addition he may have trouble remembering things such as where he put his car keys or what his plans are for that evening. When having a conversation with someone it may take her longer to understand what the person is saying and in addition she may be slow to respond. Memory and focus in general may be diminished.

Changes in Functioning

• Difficulty functioning may occur, but this is far more likely with depression than with stress. The person may call in sick often to work or school. He may also have a significant decrease in work or school performance. She may find herself overwhelmed by her daily responsibilities such as cleaning the house and paying the bills. In addition, he may have a decrease in self-care, including not taking showers, not brushing teeth and not taking care of his appearance in general.

Social Symptoms

• The social lives of those suffering from stress and depression may also suffer. They may have a decreased interest in their friends and therefore spend less time with them. In some cases this can result in lost friendships. They may feel awkward in social situations or avoid them altogether. In addition, when having a conversation those with depression may have little to say or can even speak of suicide and death.