Depression can be a long, persistent condition, but - with the right treatment and support - it is possible to make a full recovery. However, if it’s not treated quickly and effectively, then it can have an impact on how you feel, think, and handle daily activities; even basic things such as sleeping, eating, or working can start to feel like mammoth tasks.Depression can come in many different forms. A few of the most common conditions are Persistent Depressive Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Psychotic Depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and Bipolar Disorder. Each type of depression has its own symptoms, which differentiate them from one another, and these symptoms can come in many different forms too. Discover what symptoms you should look out for and how therapy can help you overcome depression.

What are the different symptoms of Depression?

Psychological symptoms

There are at least 11 psychological symptoms of depression, including the following:

• continuous low mood or sadness
• feeling hopeless and helpless
• having low self-esteem
• feeling tearful
• feeling guilt-ridden
• feeling irritable and intolerant of others
• having no motivation or interest in things
• finding it difficult to make decisions
• not getting any enjoyment out of life
• feeling anxious or worried
• having suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming yourself

Psychological symptoms can leave you feeling a range of negative emotions and can impact your day-to-day life. Actions may become harder or less interesting, and you may feel unable to do anything to improve your situation. If you are already having suicidal thoughts or thoughts about harming yourself, then please seek out urgent help as support is readily available for you to utilise. Whether it be the Samaritans, CALM, Papyrus, or any other helpline, people are available for you to speak with no matter what. These psychological symptoms can massively impact your quality of life, but seeking support can help you to improve your mental health and, often, make a full recovery.

Physical symptoms

There are at least 8 physical symptoms of depression, including the following:

• moving or speaking more slowly than usual
• changes in appetite or weight
• constipation
• unexplained aches and pains
• lack of energy
• low sex drive
• changes to your menstrual cycle
• disturbed sleep

Physical symptoms may come one at a time or overlap each other. Either way, physical symptoms can lead to larger problems. Sleep disruption, for instance, can lead to long-term issues such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and weight-related issues. The more physical symptoms you have, the more likely you are to be affected long-term. Depression can impact what you do on a daily basis. That is why exercise is so important, as it can help to release chemicals in your brain that make you feel good and improve your mood. Exercise alone isn’t the solution, but it can help to ease physical symptoms over the long term.

Social symptoms

There are at least 3 social symptoms of depression, including the following:

• avoiding contact with friends and taking part in fewer social activities
• neglecting your hobbies and interests
• having difficulties in your home, work or family life

Social symptoms can have a huge effect on your mental health and quality of life. Social interactions are crucial for your mental and physical health. Avoiding contact will only go towards worsening your condition, so it is vital that you make an effort to leave your home or at least talk with family and loved ones. Neglecting hobbies and interests can also deepen your depression. Serotonin is released when you do things that you enjoy, so even if it feels hard to find the motivation, you may feel better afterwards if you do make an effort. Having difficulties in your home, work, or family life is another social symptom, but therapy can help you find strategies to better manage your mood and improve your relationships as a result.

How can therapy help battle Depression?

Therapy is a very successful method of treating depression. Understanding your thoughts and behaviours is the first step to recovery, and strategies will be given to help you deal with and manage your depression until you have no obvious symptoms.Therapists are there to help you challenge your depression and the symptoms that have been affecting you in your daily life. This involves looking at your past experiences to find what triggered the depression and then concentrating on methods that are able to help you change your way of thinking. Therapy can give you a safe place to openly discuss your inner feelings and receive the support you need to improve. Talking with your therapist is therapeutic, quite simply said, and having someone qualified and experienced in helping others in a similar situation can really help you overcome your depression. Therapists understand depression and will have a wide range of approaches that could help you to start enjoying life more - without pushing yourself too far too fast and feeling uncomfortable or anxious.

Who to turn to for therapy in Warrington, Cheshire.

If you would like to learn more, please visit my website today. I offer therapy sessions through Zoom or in-person appointments at my clinic near Warrington. Whether it’s Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, PTSD, Depression or something else entirely, I am here to provide you with the support you need to start living life to the full. Get in touch to book an initial consultation.