Learn the early warning signs of depression like irritability, focus issues, and low energy. Spotting these signs early can make a big difference.
Early Warning Signs of Depression: What to Look For
If you’re here, you might be wondering if you or someone you care about is experiencing early warning signs of depression. You’re not alone! Since the pandemic, mental health concerns have only risen, and depression doesn’t always look like we expect. It can be subtle, showing up in surprising ways that don’t always involve feeling sad. Here are some early warning signs of depression and practical advice from mental health experts to help you recognize them.
1. Low Energy and Constant Fatigue
If you’re feeling unusually tired without other clear reasons, this might be a sign of early depression. Sometimes, people with depression feel wiped out all the time, even if they’re getting enough rest. Licensed clinical social worker Mary Tate of Tate Psychotherapy told The Huffington Post that fatigue is a big indicator since depression affects our sleep and hormone levels, which can lower our energy.
2. Trouble Focusing on Daily Tasks
Finding it hard to concentrate? Losing focus on schoolwork, reading, or even TV can be another early warning sign of depression. Depression slows down behavior activation, making it feel nearly impossible to finish even basic tasks. As Tate notes, simple activities like brushing your teeth or putting on fresh clothes can start to feel overwhelming.
In my experience, depression made even small activities seem exhausting. This lack of focus affects how we interact with the world and makes keeping up with routine tasks much harder. Early warning signs of depression often include an inability to concentrate, which can be frustrating and make daily life feel overwhelming.
3. Feeling Extra Anxious
A bit of anxiety is normal, but when it’s constant or feels like too much, it could be linked to depression. Psychiatrist Dr. Kristin Gill Minded, told The Huffington Post that depression and anxiety often go hand-in-hand, and it’s easy to mix them up. Symptoms like trouble sleeping, fatigue, and being unable to focus are common in both. Women, in particular, are twice as likely to experience both depression and anxiety.
4. Social Isolation and Withdrawing from Others
Social isolation is a strong early warning sign of depression. People dealing with depression might find themselves pulling back from social events or ignoring invitations that they would usually accept. I’ve noticed this in my own life too; I started skipping gatherings without fully realizing how much I was isolating myself.
When depression takes over, maintaining friendships can feel exhausting, leading to even deeper isolation. Social withdrawal doesn’t just harm relationships; it can make the symptoms of depression worse. For example, if you keep turning down invites, it can make close connections weaker, which may fuel a sense of loneliness. Research shows that early warning signs of depression include difficulty in social engagement, as it can feel hard to muster the energy for conversations or gatherings.
When you see a friend pulling back, reaching out with kindness and without pressure can make a difference. Sometimes, people dealing with early warning signs of depression aren’t aware of how much they’ve isolated themselves, or they may just need a reminder that someone cares.
5. Neglecting Personal Hygiene
Daily routines like brushing teeth, showering, and other hygiene tasks might seem exhausting for someone experiencing depression. Licensed clinical social worker and JustAnswer mental health expert Jennifer Kelman notes that depression makes even basic self-care feel like a chore. Ignoring these habits may seem small but often leads to more isolation, which can make depression worse.
Staying aware of these signs, like ignoring personal hygiene, can help you recognize early warning signs of depression in yourself or someone close to you. If daily hygiene routines start to feel impossible, it may be a signal to reach out for help.
6. Sleep Disruptions: Too Much or Too Little
Changes in sleep patterns, whether you’re sleeping all the time or struggling with insomnia, can be another sign of early depression. Dr. Gill shares that insomnia affects about 80% of people with depression. This includes problems falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. Some people also experience hypersomnia (too much sleep), or even both insomnia and hypersomnia within the same episode.
When I went through this, I noticed my sleep cycle was out of control. On some nights, I’d barely sleep; on others, I’d sleep for hours but still feel drained. These unpredictable sleep shifts are often early warning signs of depression, affecting our ability to stay energized and clear-headed during the day.
7. Increased Irritability
Feeling easily irritated or more short-tempered than usual can be an early warning sign of depression. People with depression often direct anger inward, leading to frustration or irritability about their own feelings. Mental health expert Jennifer Kelman explains that depression is sometimes called “anger turned inward” because those affected can feel annoyed with themselves for feeling down or not acting like their usual selves. This irritability can show up in everyday interactions, making small issues feel much bigger than they are.
Recognizing these shifts in mood can help in spotting early warning signs of depression and encourage seeking support if needed.
What To Do If You Notice These Signs
If any of these early warning signs of depression sound familiar, consider talking to a therapist or a doctor. Therapy can be a safe way to understand what’s going on, and it doesn’t have to be costly either! Here’s a list of affordable therapy options and other mental health resources you can explore.
Small daily habits can also help. Taking a quick walk, calling a friend, or eating something nourishing can have a positive impact on your mood. Remember, depression is a health condition just like any other, and it’s okay to ask for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the first few signs of depression?
The first signs of depression often include feeling persistently sad or down, a noticeable drop in energy, and a lack of interest in daily activities. People might also experience changes in sleep or appetite, as well as trouble concentrating. Recognizing these signs early can help prevent depression from worsening.
2. What is smiling depression?
Smiling depression is when someone hides their depression behind a cheerful or positive facade, so others don’t notice they’re struggling. Despite appearing happy and functioning well, they may feel deep sadness, hopelessness, or fatigue on the inside. People with smiling depression often find it challenging to seek help because their symptoms aren’t as visible to others.
3. How to pull yourself out of a depressive episode?
To pull yourself out of a depressive episode, try setting small, achievable goals and practicing self-care, like getting enough rest and eating well. Reach out to supportive friends or family members, and engage in activities that usually bring you joy, even if it feels difficult. Therapy, whether in-person or online, can also provide helpful strategies for managing depression symptoms and improving your mental health over time.
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