Depression Symptoms Checklist

Everyone has felt sad or lonely at some point of their lives, but people suffering with depression feel a constant pain that makes it difficult continuing a normal routine. Whether your depression is brought on by stress, chemical imbalance or hormonal changes, it is important to understand all of the symptoms that depression entails.

Depression Types

• There are numerous types of depression; however, the most common are major depression, atypical depression, dysthymia and seasonal affective disorder. It is important to note the differences and commonalities between these types in order to get a better understanding of what you may be going through. Major depression is also known as clinical depression. Without treatment, symptoms last about 6 months and can occur once or several times in a person's life. Atypical depression shares many of the commonalities with major depression; however, individuals typically have times when their moods are lifted. Generally, this happens after success or good news. The uplifted emotions are fleeting and depression sets in again. One of the longer lasting types of depression is dysthymia. This depressive state can last as long as 2 years. Symptoms are not as severe as major depression, but there is a strong undercurrent of sadness the individual feels. Seasonal affective disorder most commonly occurs to people living in rainy, cold, and foggy environments. People begin to feel more and more depressed as the daylight hours become shorter. To understand your depression, research different types and evaluate the symptoms.

Physical Symptoms

• You may notice that your appetite has changed from either a state of constant hunger or inability to eat. Many people begin to crave carbohydrates, sugar and caffeine. Both weight gain and weight loss are very typical for those with depression. If you are tired all the time, you may need caffeine to stay awake. Sleep disturbances are very common. Perhaps, the constant wheel in your head won't stop. Replaying the day's events or your problems are quite normal for depression. Some people find that they sleep all the time. Even after a full night's rest, individuals feel they could sleep the rest of the day. Exercise becomes a chore and day-to-day activities may seem to physically demanding. Muscle aches plague numerous depressed people. Frequent illnesses or constantly feeling like you are coming down with something may be one of your symptoms. Anxiety could keep you in a state of restlessness. Sweating, heart palpitations and jumpiness may prevent you from finishing projects or work. Other physical symptoms include digestive problems, nausea, headaches or back pain.

Mental Symptoms

• Depression has an overpowering affect to how you feel about yourself. Many feel hopeless and completely out of control. It is said that depression is a mixture of sadness and anger. You may experience both of these emotions at once. Losing the pleasure you once felt in your hobbies, work or friends is very frustrating to the depressed individual. It seems as though these attributes should fix the depression, but many in a depressed state have had an alteration in their brainchemistry . Without medication or proper nutrients, it can be impossible for some to break out of depression. One of the first things you can do is list the physical and mental symptoms you have been exhibiting. Visit a doctor to ask more questions. Depression does not have to absorb your life. Accept this is where you are at this time and seek out ways to gain support.