Identifying Depression
There are many signs that one may be depressed. Some of the more common symptoms include:
Depression is not a matter of feeling a little “off” or “down” for a day or two. It involves experiencing some very real and often very intense symptoms indicating that something more severe is afoot.
Everyone feels sad at some point. Anything from the death of a family member to the loss of employment can trigger deep feelings of sadness or some of the other symptoms listed above. The difference between a normal emotional reaction to events and depression lies in its overall impact upon one’s life and ability to function.
If one is feeling the types of symptoms listed above, and recognizes that these feelings are preventing them from functioning or are beginning to impact their ability to carry out normal daily living, depression is likely.
This is particularly true when the feelings mentioned have lasted longer than two weeks. We all experience highs and lows and sometimes those sensations can linger for awhile.
However, if one is experiencing a deep low for more than a few weeks, it is time to consider that depression may be the culprit.
There are many self-diagnostic tests available to let one know if they may be suffering from depression. These tests, of course, are not disparities and anyone who believes they may have depression is reminded to immediately seek professional medical assistance.
The diagnostic tools, however, many of which have been developed by physicians and psychological experts can be helpful in determining whether or not it may be time to seek professional
help.
One such test, which was written by Duke’s Dr. William Zung, is frequently used and highly regarded. It can be found online at
https://www.deaconess.com/
