Symptoms of Severe Depression - Scary If Not Detected!

We are facing constant problems everyday such as stress, grief, tragedy, lost job and several other factors that can make us miserable. Several symptoms of severe depression are due to factors that you may or may not know of. So, you ask yourself: Is it getting harder to get over my problems? Is this affecting my job performance or studies Do I prefer to stay at home more than interact with my colleagues, neighbors or family members more often?

Most of us can handle daily stressful events and move on. However, there are still some who suffer from depression for whom daily challenges become an ordeal.

Picture yourself living that happy and normal life again. Remember, you're not the only one having this problem. There is a solution to this and the first step is to talk about it. Depression is never embarrassing to open up to a close friend or your a mental health professional. The following steps would reveal to you how you can fight off depression fast and effectively.

There are two types of depression: endogenous and neurotic. Endogenous depression is experienced from within. This type of depression may be hereditary in nature; if not, from unknown origin. Neurotic depression is triggered due to precipitating factors such as death in the family, job loss or other significant events leading to depression. It's important to see if you're experiencing symptoms of severe depression before it gets worse.

Depression is not only a feeling of being sad. However, symptoms of severe depression such as inability to focus on tasks and activities of daily living are some you need to look out for.

This may make it harder for you get through the challenges of every day life. This can be a burden for you and everyone around you. Prolonging depression can lead individuals to try or commit suicide, thus the need to seek professional help before it gets this way.

So, how do you know you're having symptoms of severe depression?

Depression is not only limited to adults. Elderly and children are prone to having depression as well. Depression would last for at least two weeks with five or more of the following indications:

• Feeling 'down' all the time


• Frequent crying


• Loss of appetite


• Considerable weight gain or weight loss


• Excessive or lack of sleep


• Agitation


• Irritability


• Exhaustion


• Low self-esteem


• Suicidal tendencies

Most individuals suffering from severe depression will have distorted thought patterns such as slow thinking process, crowded, or racing thoughts. Also content related delusions are prevalent such as becoming poor, or feeling guilty. This may lead to disturbed thoughts posing a high risk for suicide.

Individuals with significant changes in appetite, stamina and sleep patterns will usually crave for carbohydrate-rich foods (usually chocolates). This may be a sign that they might be irritated or agitated on top of being depressed.

People with severe depression have a hard time getting back to their normal activities. People in this state would usually require help in activities such as bathing, eating, dressing and other activities of daily living.

Symptoms of severe depression may linger for days to years. People in this state would have a difficulty leading a normal life if not treated immediately. Prevention is the best way to avoid further psychological deterioration. Depression is not a battle you can fight alone. If you're suffering from any of these symptoms, start seeking professional help immediately.