The symptoms of depression can be complex and vary widely between people. If you're depressed, you may feel sad, hopeless and lose interest in things you used to enjoy. The symptoms persist for weeks or months and are bad enough to interfere with your work, social life and family life. There are many other symptoms of depression and you're unlikely to have all of those listed on this page. The psychological symptoms of depression include: The physical symptoms of depression include: The social symptoms of depression include: Depression can often come on gradually, so it can be difficult to notice something is wrong. Many people try to cope with their symptoms without realising they're unwell. It can sometimes take a friend or family member to suggest something is wrong. Doctors describe depression by how serious it is: It can be difficult to distinguish between grief and depression. They share many of the same characteristics, but there are important differences between them. Grief is an entirely natural response to a loss, while depression is an illness. People who are grieving find their feelings of sadness and loss come and go, but they're still able to enjoy things and look forward to the future. In contrast, people who are depressed constantly feel sad. They find it difficult to enjoy anything or be positive about the future. Read more about coping with grief and bereavement There are different types of depression, and some conditions where depression may be one of the symptoms. These include: Read more about diagnosing depression See a GP if you experience symptoms of depression for most of the day, every day, for more than 2 weeks. It can be painful to watch a friend struggle with their mental health. Here are some common symptoms of depression to watch for and ways to support a friend or loved one who is struggling. 1. Difficulty getting out of bedIt’s perfectly normal to enjoy sleeping in or spending time in bed. However, if it has become difficult to find the motivation to get out of bed or get ready in the morning, this could be a sign of depression. Depression can make us feel fatigued and physically drained to the point where even small tasks, like getting up in the morning or showering, can feel exhausting or difficult to do. 2. Sleeping habitsThe physical and mental exhaustion that comes with depression can also affect our sleeping habits. Changes in sleep can show up in a number of ways. Sometimes this means sleeping throughout the day, using sleep as a way to pass the time or preferring sleep to other daily activities. Other times, sleep changes can create bouts of insomnia, which can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep at night. Missing out on quality, restful sleep can increase our anxiety levels and intensify feelings of distress. Sometimes, this creates a cycle where our anxious thoughts keep us awake and negatively impact our sleep, which then leads to more anxious thoughts. 3. Changes in appetiteOur appetite and eating habits can also be impacted by depression. Some people may experience an increased appetite, while others have less of an appetite or may not be hungry at all. If you are noticing changes in your sleep habits, like the ones listed above, you may also notice changes in the way you eat. This is because sleep helps regulate our hunger hormones, which help to keep us from over- or undereating. 4. Persistent irritability or mood swingsDepression can cause us to experience outbursts and mood swings. One minute we’re angry, the next we’re crying uncontrollably, or we shut down and go numb. Changes in our mood can switch in a moment’s notice. Sometimes these changes can be triggered by small or insignificant challenges, and other times they may come about completely unprovoked. If you notice a pattern of irritability or mood swings that last more than a few days, it may be linked to depression. 5. Difficulty experiencing joy or connectionWhen we’re depressed, it can take all of the enjoyment out of the things we love and make it more difficult for us to connect to those closest to us. We may begin to lose interest in hobbies, friendships, schoolwork, social activities, sex or life in general. When we find that we are no longer enjoying or finding pleasure in the things we used to enjoy, this can be a sign of depression. We may also isolate ourselves from close friends, family members or others who care about us, which can perpetuate the symptoms of depression. How to help someone who may be experiencing depressionIf you are currently experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it’s okay to seek support:
**Depending on your area code, you may be redirected to local mental health service providers. Those with Colorado area codes will be redirected to Colorado Crisis Services, who may dispatch a Mobile Crisis Clinician for face-to-face interventions. If you are calling from out-of-state or have a non-local area code, face-to-face interventions may be conducted by law enforecement or medical response teams. If you notice a roommate, friend or classmate experiencing any of these symptoms, here are a few things you can do to help. Acknowledge their feelingsOftentimes, if someone is depressed or thinking about suicide, they will disclose their thoughts and feelings to friends before seeking out resources. If someone expresses difficulties, acknowledge their feelings and let them know that you are there for them and care about them. Express concernIf someone shares their feelings with you or if you notice concerning behavior changes, let them know you’re worried about them. For instance, you could say something like: “I’ve noticed that you haven’t been acting like your normal self lately, and I’m worried about you. Is everything okay?” Remain calmIt's normal to feel anxious when someone discloses that they're experiencing difficulties, but it's important to appear calm and confident so that the person doesn't then feel like they need to take care of us. It’s okay to seek support for yourself while offering support to others. Listen without offering judgment or adviceListen to your friend as they tell you about their experiences, emotions and difficulties. Avoid passing judgment or giving them advice about what they should do. Instead, focus on sitting with them and being there for them in the moment. Your job isn't to fix the situation but to help your friend feel heard and understood. Ask what would be helpfulIt can be tempting to give advice to a friend who is struggling. However, it’s important to ask that person what they need or what would be helpful for them. This may look different for everyone. For instance, your friend may need help with cleaning their apartment or they may need someone to check on them occasionally. It’s also normal for people to not know exactly what they need. If that’s the case, set up another time to talk or check in with them later, so they have time to think about what might be most helpful. Share resourcesIf a friend is struggling, it’s important to know that you don’t have to carry that burden for them. Instead, let your friend know that there are resources available to help. Keep in mind that it is important to share resources without forcing the person to utilize them. Allow your friend to choose how and when they access help. If your friend is comfortable with seeking out additional support, you can offer to help them connect with services on or off campus. For instance, you can offer to make a call to Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) with them. Keep in mind that CAPS can also provide support services for those looking to help their friends, including consultations and recommendations. Support resourcesIf you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. Mental health services24/7 crisis supportCounseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) provides 24/7 crisis support for students who need same-day crisis or urgent support. Please note: Crisis care should not be used for life-threatening emergencies. Available to students AcademicLiveCareAcademicLiveCare is a telehealth platform that allows students to schedule and attend mental health appointments 24/7 from a smartphone, computer or other mobile device for free. Easily schedule virtual visits with licensed psychologists, counselors, psychiatrists, or other providers. AcademicLiveCare does not provide crisis or emergency care. Available to students Let’s TalkLet’s Talk is a free service that allows CU Boulder students to attend a free, informal and confidential consultation with a counselor in person or online. If you have non-urgent concerns you would like to speak to a counselor about, Let’s Talk is a great option to get connected and learn about additional resources. Available to students Student mental health servicesCounseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) provides mental health support for all CU Boulder students, including mental health screenings, brief individual therapy, group therapy, workshops and more. Available to students WellTrack
Health and Wellness Services has launched a new mental health app for students, staff and faculty! Download WellTrack to track your mood, practice skills and complete modules. WellTrack is available on the App Store and Google Play. Sign in with your IdentiKey for free access. Available to students Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP)FSAP is committed to promoting the mental and emotional well-being of CU’s staff and faculty. They offer free consultations, brief individual therapy and workshops. Available to staff and faculty Anthem Gold Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)Students enrolled in the Anthem Gold Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) from CU Boulder have access to comprehensive medical, mental health and prescription coverage, including 100% coverage for in-network mental health visits. Available to students Employee mental health coverageAll CU employee health plans include a one free preventive mental health care visit per plan year for employees and covered dependents. Learn more about mental health benefits by visiting the HR Benefits page. Available to staff and faculty Student Support and Case Management (SSCM)SSCM provides support for students throughout their time at CU Boulder. They are here to help students identify issues and appropriate resources. They also work collaboratively with students to develop an action plan. Available to students Education and supportKognitoKognito is an online resource that can help you practice having challenging conversations with someone in distress. You’ll learn how to identify the warning signs of psychological distress and how to talk about it with that person. It also provides tools to help you build connections and assist someone in seeking help. Available to students, staff and faculty CU Boulder offers free Mental Health First Aid training to students, staff and faculty. During this training you will learn about risk factors and warning signs, engage in experiential activities and learn about evidence-supported treatment and self-help strategies. Available to students, staff and faculty CU Boulder students can sign up for our free WellCU program to learn about mental health and well-being. Topics include trauma response, suicide prevention, self-care and more. Students who complete all five modules will receive a non-degree certificate. Available to students Red FolderRed Folder provides a quick reference guide to help staff and faculty recognize, respond to and refer students who are experiencing distress. Available to staff and faculty Suicide preventionSuicide is the second leading cause of death among college-aged students. Whether you or someone you know is having a hard time, it’s important to reach out or ask for help. Learn how to talk about suicide and help someone in need. Available to students, staff and faculty The Supporting Student Resiliency Professional Development Series provides CU faculty and staff with concrete skills to better support students. Sessions focus on areas critical to student retention and success. Faculty and staff can attend any individual session or attend all three sessions to receive a non-degree certificate. Can depression make you weak physically?Physical symptoms are common in depression, and, in fact, vague aches and pain are often the presenting symptoms of depression. These symptoms include chronic joint pain, limb pain, back pain, gastrointestinal problems, tiredness, sleep disturbances, psychomotor activity changes, and appetite changes.
What are the 5 effects of depression?Depression doesn't just affect the mind; it also affects the body. Some of the physical effects include erratic sleep habits, loss of appetite (or increased appetite with atypical depression), constant fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, and back pain.
What can major depression do to your body?Depression often gets worse if it isn't treated, resulting in emotional, behavioral and health problems that affect every area of your life. Examples of complications associated with depression include: Excess weight or obesity, which can lead to heart disease and diabetes. Pain or physical illness.
What does it mean to fall in depression?Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable. Depression causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
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