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Depression can be difficult to diagnose because sufferers often complain of varied physical symptoms, which may be real or may be a way of masking their depression as they are unwilling to admit to the problem. The physical and mental symptoms that may accompany depression are:
- A bleak outlook – A negative and distorted way of thinking when everything looks hopeless and they feel helpless to change it for the better
- Weight change – Significant (5% of body weight) change either in gain or loss due to changes in eating habits and appetite
- Changes in sleep pattern – Once again, a major change in either direction, whether insomnia or oversleeping (hypersomnia)
- Self loathing – Strong feelings of worthlessness or guilt over something leading to an extremely poor self image and obsession over small things
- Restless or lethargy – Those suffering from depression may externalise their irritation and become easily agitated and lash out, or they could swing the other way and sink into a sluggish “what’s the point” attitude to everything
- Loss of interest and energy – Previously enjoyed activities and pastimes now hold no joy, loss of sex drive, and a feeling of fatigue which can allow someone to sink deeper into their depression
- Lack of concentration – Frequent mistakes, forgetfulness and trouble focussing making even the simplest of tasks challenging
- Aches and pains – Headaches, abdominal pains, joint pains, difficult or frequent bowel movements
- Tearfulness – Regular and sometimes uncontrollable crying often accompanies depression as people find it hard to cope with their emotions
- Thoughts of suicide – Although limited to those with clinical depression, this should always be considered very seriously
If you know of anyone who has voiced a desire to harm themselves you should seek out the help of a professional immediately.
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