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Stress Depression Symptoms

Stress is a major cause of clinical depression, as well as anxiety and other behavioral health conditions. And for people who already suffer from depression, an overload of stress can make it worse. Stress does not necessarily mean a negative situation is occurring. Even happy events, such as marriage or the birth of a child can cause stress that may lead to clinical depression. It's important to recognize the warning signs of a depression that may stem from stressful activities.

  1. Ongoing Stress and Depression

    • Clinical depression is characterized by ongoing symptoms that are different from the person's usual mental state. Everyone feels depressed and overwhelmed at times, but the patient with a clinical depression feels depressed every day for most of the day. Depressed children and teens often display this as irritability or withdrawing from normal activities. They may show a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed.

    Lack of Focus

    • Many depressed people find they have a difficult time focusing or concentrating on something important. They may daydream and find it hard to make decisions. They may be easily distracted. A depressed person in school or involved in a demanding line of work may have trouble functioning properly. In children and teens, a drop in grades may be an easily recognized symptom. For elderly people, memory may be the first symptom.

    Hopelessness

    • A feeling of hopelessness is a hallmark symptom of depression. Patients may cry easily and feel sad. They may feel empty or worthless. Often they have an over-exaggerated sense of guilt. In some patients, the guilt may be completely delusional. They may have an unrealistic sense of responsibility for negative events.

    Suicide

    • Some depressed patients think about death and suicide frequently. They may make a specific suicide plan and acquire the materials needed to carry out the suicide. Some depressed people actually attempt suicide.

    Physical Symptoms

    • Many people overeat when depressed, and some almost stop eating. A depressed person often has a significant weight gain or loss. There may be a real change in appetite. Depressed people usually feel a loss of energy. Their sleeping habits may change. Some will develop insomnia, and some will want to sleep all day. Others may experience vague pains and gastrointestinal problems that are not easily diagnosed. According to a report from the University of Texas Medical School, there is a strong link between pain and depression. The neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine help regulate mood, but they also help regulate pain.

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