Photo by Jeremy Wong

Originally Posted On: https://www.phoenixrisingrecovery.com/rehab-blog/how-to-identify-the-signs-of-depression-in-a-loved-one/

Depression affects millions of people in the US. It’s a mood disorder that makes you feel sad or lose interest in what was pleasurable before. There are many signs of depression; therefore, you need to observe if a loved one is exhibiting the symptoms of the illness. This way, you will be of great help to get the care and medication they need before the situation gets out of hand.

The Common Signs of Depression

If you suspect a loved one is struggling with depression, it’s essential to seek help at a rehab facility nearby. There are many signs to watch out for, including:

• Depressed mood
• Change in appetite
• Sleeping disorders (too much or too little)
• Loss of sexual desire
• A feeling of worthlessness
• Weight loss or gain

Depression in Men and Women  

Depression occurs twice as much in women than in men. Typically, women with depression may exhibit signs like irritability, anxiety, mood swings, and fatigue. Most women also tend to dwell on negative thoughts. That said, some symptoms may differ from one female to another, as some can exhibit premenstrual dysphoric disorder or even experience postpartum depression.

Men, on the other hand, may resort to indulging in drugs in excess. Also, they may display extreme anger or engage in deadly risks. The American Psychological Association approximates that up to 9% of men in the US suffer from depression and anxiety.

Other men may resort to working without taking breaks, avoiding families or social situations, displaying abusive behaviors, or not being able to maintain healthy relationships. It may be hard to monitor this, but if you are close or attached to someone, you will see an abnormal pattern.

Depression in College Students

Another group that also often suffers from depression is college students. In college, students suffer several stressful situations that touch on culture, lifestyle, first-time experience, and much more. Most students always have a hard time coping up with these changes; thus, they develop anxiety, depression, or even both.

Some signs of depression among college students include difficulty in concentration at school, sleeping too much, or even insomnia.

Signs of Depression in Teens

Among teens, you will observe the physical change, peer pressure, and a couple of effects. These are pointers that they are suffering from depression. A common accompanying symptom is difficulty concentrating on school work. Teens also tend to withdraw from friends and family as they feel restless, guilty, worthless, or helpless. However, keep in mind that adolescence can be a difficult time both socially and hormonally. Thus, what may appear to be depression may not be. It’s important to talk frequently with the teen in your life but avoid panic or smothering concern.

Overcome Depression at Phoenix Rising Recovery  

Our team of therapists understands that although depression affects everyone, it’s treatable. In most cases, we prescribe antidepressants to help you or a loved one in managing the signs of depression. Usually, antidepressants are useful for treating moderate to severe depression. Before the mental health professional finds a suitable medicine for your illness, you may go through many classes of antidepressants.

For a successful recovery, there are several tailored programs designed to get you on the recovery path. Therefore, your individualized treatment plan will be a combination of several types of treatments, including:

• Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy program
• Family therapy program
• Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) program

At Phoenix Rising Recovery, we are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones to rise beyond past trauma and substance abuse disorders. Keep in mind that depression can lead to suicide when left untreated, so seek medical at a rehab center in California as soon as you identify several signs of depression. Don’t let mental health disorders ruin your life. Contact us today at 855.232.8211, and we’ll get you started on the journey to recovery.