“It seems like I have depression.”
“What depression? You’re just being dramatic, making a big deal out of nothing!”
Many people suspect they have depression and confide in their friends and family, but they are disregarded, being labeled as overly dramatic. Eventually, they stop bothering to explain, keeping everything to themselves. Outwardly, everything seems normal, but internally, the “black hole” in their hearts grows deeper, slowly consuming them. So, what are the symptoms of early-stage depression? Is it really just being overdramatic?
What are the signs of early-stage depression? See if you have them.
Feeling low without any reason, unable to find joy, inexplicably sad and pessimistic, getting agitated and irritable over minor inconveniences, the severity varies among individuals, and so do the symptoms. Some may experience mild symptoms while others more severe ones. Even without any external causes, there’s a constant sense of unease.
Losing interest in everything, avoiding social activities, distancing oneself from friends and family’s care and greetings, preferring solitude in one’s room, contemplating abandoning things once loved like books, comics, pets, frequently mentioning feeling “tired” and “unmotivated”.
Physical discomfort akin to being sick, as mental health affects physical well-being too. People with depression may experience symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, muscle aches, nausea, even daily tasks like brushing teeth or washing hair feel exhausting. Hospital examinations may not reveal any issues, with patients describing it as feeling like a leaking balloon or soulless robot.
Depressed individuals lack self-confidence, engaging in negative self-talk, envisioning failures before even trying, avoiding actions altogether. Feeling weak, inadequate, with low self-esteem, foreseeing a bleak future, deeming life meaningless. Considering numerous ways to die, contemplating suicide frequently, envisioning jumping off buildings, in front of speeding trains, or using sharp objects on themselves. Indulging in fantasies of being a victim, feeling pity for themselves without seeing any issues.
These are often signs of early-stage depression, though presenting one or two symptoms doesn’t equate to having depression. While it’s common to experience work-related or emotional stress, being trapped in prolonged negative emotions or suicidal thoughts signals a need for vigilance.
Mild depression may not hinder daily activities, sometimes disappearing with a positive event like meeting a supportive friend or job promotion. Severe depression is hard to overcome through self-regulation and requires seeking help from mental health professionals.
For those struggling with depression, here are a few recommendations: Stay occupied, as idle time breeds overthinking. Avoid too much aimless thinking daily, even a short walk could uplift your mood. With ample time, consider traveling to a place you’ve always wanted to visit; witnessing the diversity of life may provide solace. For instance, encountering a single mother struggling with luggage and kids, or a taxi driver experiencing low blood sugar without time to eat. Knowing others face difficulties too might bring a sense of clarity.
