Many people find it very hard to talk about depression and suicidal thoughts. Society has made it a taboo topic for the longest time, and only recently has the importance of mental health awareness come to light.
More than 264 million people in the world suffer from depression. The more we talk about these topics, the better we can support those struggling with it. Part of helping others – or yourself – with depression is learning how to identify its symptoms.
The Signs of Depression: What to Look For
Depression is more than just sadness— it’s a serious and common medical illness that severely affects how you act, think, and feel. Below are some warning signs of depression:
- Loss of pleasure or interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Prolonged sadness or depressed mood
- Sleeping issues such as insomnia or sleeping too much
- Appetite changes
- Drastic weight gain or loss not related to dieting
- Feelings of helplessness, worthlessness, and guilt
- Hopelessness
- Pessimism
- Irritability and restlessness
- Significantly reduced libido
- Digestive problems with no clear cause
- Persistent “empty” feelings
- Anxiety
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Trouble concentrating
- Memory troubles
Once you notice these symptoms in yourself or in others, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as you can. Depression is not a feeling— it’s a legitimate medical condition. Therefore, it requires proper and careful treatment.
A doctor will run tests to rule out physical causes for your symptoms and arrive at a diagnosis. You may also be referred to a mental health specialist, who will then figure out an appropriate course of treatment.
How to Know if Someone is Having Suicidal Thoughts
In many cases, depression can lead to suicidal thoughts. Suicidal intentions and thoughts should always be taken seriously. Look out for the following red flags:
- Always thinking or talking about death
- Sudden, inexplicable switch from depression to extreme happiness or calmness
- Risk-taking behavior such as driving through red lights
- Putting affairs in order such as changing a will or tying up loose ends
- Talking about suicide
- Verbalizing plans for suicide
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please reach out to us ASAP. Talking for Therapy is available 24/7 to help you navigate these dark thoughts with non-judgmental, compassionate listening support.
You Are Not Alone – Let’s Talk.
Depression is an extremely heavy burden to bear even without the presence of suicidal thoughts. While medical intervention is critical in treating and managing depressive disorders, receiving emotional support is crucial as well.
With Talking for Therapy, you don’t have to carry this alone:
- We will never judge you.
- We will not offer unsolicited advice.
- Every call is strictly confidential.
- Our advisors are trained in providing active listening support.
- You can call us anytime for any thought or emotion you’re feeling.
- We are available to answer your call 24/7, wherever you are in the world.
We are here for you, whether you’re just having a bad day or trying to manage chronic depression and suicidal thoughts. Book an appointment now and let’s talk about YOU.
