You Might Be Depressed If You Suffer These Symptoms

Depression can hamper your ability to function at work, school, or home. It can also destroy relationships and affect your social interaction. But depression isn’t always that drastic in the beginning. Subtle signs may be early warnings that depression is creeping up on you.

At Genesis Psychiatric Solutions, board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Ifeanye Olele can talk to you about the signs of depression, from obvious symptoms to lesser known red flags, and ensure you get the help you need.

Understanding depression 

Depression is an illness that can affect both your state of mind and your physical health. You may be experiencing depression but haven’t yet realized that’s what’s happening to you.

You might think that being depressed means being suicidal or completely incapable of functioning. But early mental and emotional signs of depression can range from mild to moderate, and often include:

• Feelings of guilt or intrusive thoughts that you are worthless
• Lack of enjoyment in things you used to love
• Procrastination, lack of motivation, and/or inability to focus
• Anxiety leading to avoidance of people or activities
• Risk-taking behaviors like drinking until you black out or driving irresponsibly
• Wishing you didn’t have to exist because dealing with life seems too hard

You may also notice various physical symptoms related to depression, such as:

• Restless sleep or sleepless nights (insomnia)
• Constant fatigue and/or a desire to nap throughout the day
• Disordered eating, such as binging or purging
• Lack of appetite or even feelings of disgust toward food
• Fluctuating weight levels
• Trouble maintaining basic hygiene
• Stomach pains, headaches, and/or joint and muscle pain

Depression can increase risk of serious health issues including lowered immune response, hypertension, and even heart disease. Recognizing signs of depression early can help you reduce your risks of chronic illness.

Taking depression seriously

Dr. Olele and our staff at Genesis Psychiatric Solutions are committed to helping you successfully manage your depressive symptoms and live a happy, fulfilled life. 

There are treatment options for depression, including lifestyle changes, talk therapy, and medications to regulate how your brain works for better mental and physical health. You’ll probably need several sessions to find the combination that works best for you. 

If you find yourself experiencing deep depressive episodes or having suicidal thoughts, we give you resources and tools to ensure that you get the help you need. You’ll be able to find hope and purpose, and start enjoying life again. 

If you believe that you are struggling with depression, get in touch with us right away by calling the location closest to you or requesting a consultation online. We have multiple offices located in Fairfax and Alexandria, Virginia; Washington, DC; Los Angeles, California; and Boca Raton, Florida.