What Depression Looks Like.

I've written before in this blog about different issues and ailments that a certain percentage of the population has to contend with. Depression is just one of these issues. Sometimes, though, it's hard to spot. Here's a list of the most common symptoms, followed by a list of not-so-commonly known ones:

Common Depression Symptoms:

• fatigue and decreased energy
• feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness
• feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
• loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
• overeating or appetite loss
• persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings
• thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts

Not-so-Commonly Known Symptoms:

• difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
• insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
• irritability, restlessness
• persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment                               http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/detecting-depression

This last symptoms is one that took even me by surprise (as I have personal knowledge of what depression looks like, in all it's ill-fated glory). The idea that a psychological ailment can manifest itself as pain in the body is something that I've intuitively known for years. I've been a casual student of the school of thought that we cannot escape negative cognitions. Our thoughts do not go away simply because we ignore them. But to think that they can show back up in our body is amazing and a little off-putting at the same time.

The main point I'm trying to get across here is this: Depression is a real thing. If you or someone who is close to you is dealing with the above symptoms, it would behoove you to get him/her/yourself a doctor's appointment and a referral to a mental health professional. The hype and stigma surrounding mental illness is a tragedy, but no one should let it become their own personal tragedy. Help is available. There are plenty of medications and types of therapy that can and do treat depression symptoms. Getting out of bed and doing normal every day tasks shouldn't be difficult -- take advantage of the help that is attainable to us. You're worth it.