source: Public Domain

Signs to seek help

There are certain symptoms that may be warning signs and a signal to get help. If you have been experiencing one or more of these symptoms over a period of a few weeks, you should seek help.

Clinical depression is a condition that must be diagnosed by a qualified mental health professional. Studies show that clinical depression responds well to treatment, and can be effectively treated in more than 80% of all cases.

Also, if you observe these symptoms in a family member or friend, make it a point to help them get help. Often, when someone suffers from depression, they can be apathetic and lack the motivation to seek help themselves - intervention and help by a loved one can make all the difference.

Five Common Symptoms

A study that appeared in the Fall 1998 issue of The International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine indicated that the following 5 symptoms were among the most common symptoms reported by at least 90% of the subjects in the study group who were experiencing depression:

• Less enjoyment from usual activities

• Disappointment with self

• Hopelessness

• Irritability

• Difficulty sleeping

Study Source

http://www.pslgroup.com/dg/c56fa.htm

Other frequent symptoms of clinical depression:

• Persistent sadness, anxiety, or feelings of emptiness.

• Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

• Fatigue, lack of energy, lethargy

• Sleep disorders, insomnia†or sleeping too much

• Sudden reductions or increases in appetite and weight

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed

• Restlessness or irritability

• Physical complaints that persist despite treatment - headaches, pain, digestive problems

• Difficulty thinking, concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

• Feelings of guilt, hopelessness or worthlessness or pointlessness