Everyone’s mood can vary from day to day. However, if you’re feeling sad and irritable for days at a time or have a loss of interest in activities you love, these could be signs of depression.
Depression is more than simply going through a rough patch. It’s a serious, recognized mental health condition that can make daily life difficult for those affected. Read on to learn more about common depression symptoms in women and men so you can be prepared to help yourself and/or the ones you love with the right treatment.
Common Depression Signs
It’s important to remember that depression and anxiety symptoms often go hand in hand. For a proper diagnosis, it’s important to talk to a licensed mental health professional or your doctor.
Here are a handful of depression symptoms to watch out for.
1. Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
One major sign of depression is feelings of guilt or hopelessness that last more than two weeks. Depression isn’t always just feeling sad. Many people may experience other negative emotions that make it difficult to go about their daily life.
2. Loss of interest in daily activities
Hobbies, work, and relationships should be sources of joy. Losing interest in doing the things you love or your daily activities is another sign of depression.
3. Appetite or weight changes
Many individuals report a decrease in their appetite when it comes to depression and anxiety disorders. This can lead to weight loss in the long term which can be detrimental to your physical health.
4. Changes in sleep
Depression is a mental illness, and like other mood disorders, it can also affect your sleep. Many people with depression find it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep, which can create a negative cycle.
5. Anger or irritability
Major depression can also cause mood swings in individuals. This isn’t to be confused with bipolar disorder, as it is characterized by quick shifts in mood.
6. Loss of energy
It’s no surprise that depression can lead to a lack of energy. Trouble sleeping and being interested in daily activities naturally leads to feeling more lethargic.
7. Self-loathing
Depression causes major emotions, including feelings of worthlessness. This can lead to low-self esteem and self-loathing.
What Can Depression Cause?
As you can see, depression can cause both mental and physical anguish. It doesn’t discriminate between men and women and it can manifest in individuals in different ways.
Depression is also a spectrum. Major depressive disorder is often the most severe and includes the most symptoms.
Causes of Depression
There is no one cause for this mental illness. You may be more at risk if your family has a history of depression, you have a hormonal imbalance, or experience a traumatic event.
It’s also important to note that depression in women can occur in different ways. For example, postpartum depression is unique to a woman’s life and can affect her mood, menstrual cycle, and more.
Addressing Depression with Proper Nutrition
Proper nutrition also plays a pivotal role in conquering depression. The brain relies heavily on specific nutrients to regulate neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which profoundly impact mood.
Our bodies possess an innate capacity for healing and regeneration, but they require a nurturing environment to thrive. Deficiencies in omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D have all been linked to increased risk of depression. Conversely, a diet rich in whole foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, legumes, and nuts provides the nutrients necessary for optimal brain function and emotional well-being.
Our latest HAPPY HEALTHY YOU guidebook can help nurture the body and brain with the right dietary building blocks, supporting mental health from the inside out.
