Am I depressed?

Sometimes the signs of depression can be subtle- hiding under masks that are socially acceptable. In other words, we may be showing signs of depression that may not look like the typically version of “being sad” as we would expect it to look like.

There may even moments when people call out some things about us that may be off or not part of usual behavior or routine; when that happens it could be an invitation to check in with ourselves and see what is going on.

Below are some examples of behaviors that can be seen in people with signs of depression:

· More time than usual on social media

· Speaking to friends and family less often than usual

· Not taking time to do activities you once enjoyed.

· Feeling tired almost all the time

· Sleeping more than usual

· Eating more than usual

· Finding it easy to skip meals

· Losing motivation

· Getting easily frustrated

· Drinking more alcohol than usual

· Feeling overwhelmed with the smallest tasks

· Increased irritability/annoyance

· Having difficulty managing emotions (especially anger and sadness)

· Not being able to focus on a task- such as work activity or an episode of one of your

favorite TV shows/ movie

· Feeling alone

· Skipping therapy and/or not taking medications

· Caring less about your appearance

· Avoiding difficult conversations

While this list certainly is not exhaustive, it can be used as a tool to determine whether you may be in a depressive state.

Occasionally, we may experience one or a few of these at some parts in our lives (perhaps even in the same day) and it doesn’t necessarily mean we are depressed. However, if you notice that a lot of these resonate with you and these behaviors are becoming a more frequent part of your day-to-day experience- it may be time to reach out for help.

If you think you may have depression, or if there are symptoms or concerns who have that you want address, speak to your primary care doctor or mental health specialist as soon as possible.

Depression is real, and sometimes it may not show up in ways we may recognize or be familiar with. If that is you, know you are not alone.

Suicide and Crisis Hotline: 988 (24 hour/7 days a week)