12 Hidden Signs of Depression

264 million people worldwide suffer from depression. Depression is more than just sadness. There are specific symptoms that hinder a person’s capacity to function for an extended period of time. Here are some hidden signs that you might be suffering from depression: 

1. Apathy. You don’t want to get out of bed, don’t want to fold your laundry, or do anything. All you want to do is crawl under a rock and stay there. This is a huge red flag for depression. It destroys your motivation to complete any task, regardless of how big or small it may be. Everything feels like a chore.

2. Loss of interest. Nothing piques your interest anymore. This can range from your former favorite hobby to spending time with loved ones. You don’t have the desire to participate in activities you once loved. This is another major sign of depression. 

3. Body aches. Every step you take causes your body ache. Soreness and pain courses through your body anytime you move it. 

4. Lack of sleep or too much sleep. When you have depression, your sleep cycle is irregular, leaning toward one extreme or the other. Insomnia and oversleeping are both signs of depression.  

5. Excessive crying. It’s normal to cry. It can be cathartic too! However, if you’re always crying, that’s a sign of depression. Little things can trigger the tears, and you may feel the need to sob your eyes out all of the time.

6. Suicidal thoughts. Suicidal thoughts are a huge indicator of severe depression, and should be treated immediately with medical intervention. Any thoughts about ending your life means you’re extremely depressed. Suicide is never a solution. 

7. Self-Harm. Harming yourself can manifest in many different forms. Feeling the desire to hurt yourself is a sign of depression. Please seek medical help if you find yourself engaging in self harm. 

8. Feelings of worthlessness. If you don’t value yourself, you may be suffering from depression. People with depression often lack self-esteem and don’t feel worthy. 

9. Feeling like a burden. You may feel like you’re a burden on people, and like all you do is bother people. You’re afraid of sharing your intimate thoughts and feelings due to this fear. 

10. Feeling hopeless. You feel there’s no hope for yourself or your future. You don’t look forward to the future, and you feel there’s nothing going for you. This hopelessness is a clear sign of depression. 

11. Changes in appetite. This can include excessively eating or not eating enough. Rapid gaining or losing weight are both signs of depression. Either way, both extremes indicate depression. 

12. Feelings of anxiety. Anxiety and depression can go hand in hand with each other. Depression can heighten anxiety, and vice versa. Trouble thinking, excessive sweating, lack of concentration, and nervousness are signs of anxiety and depression. 

If you believe that you, or someone you know, is suffering from depression, please seek help. There’s nothing wrong with reaching out to friends, family, and medical professionals for assistance. Therapists are doing Zoom and telephone appointments if you need it! You aren’t on this journey alone. Depression won’t consume your life forever. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. 

If you or someone you know suffers from suicidal thoughts, please call the Suicide Lifeline: (800) 273-8255

For more information on depression, click here. 

Written By: M.J. Darling