Depression can be a hidden disorder that is not recognized right away. Only half of people with depression typically receive treatment. Improved rates of early diagnosis and recovery are seen when a loved one seeks treatment for depression. Learn some strategies to identify the symptoms of depression and see if a loved one is struggling.
Depression Checklist
A depression checklist can help loved ones notice if someone is struggling with signs of depression. Beyond making diagnoses clinically, other screening measures can be used but generally speaking, the following are recognizable signs of depression:
- Significant fluctuations in sleeping or appetite patterns
- Extreme drops in interest or pleasure
- Feelings of hopelessness or guilt
- Low energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Reduced motor control
- Suicidal ideation
An official diagnosis of major depressive disorder must fulfill four of the above symptoms to be marked as such and prolonged sadness for at least two weeks must also be noticed. Related diagnoses such as dysthymic disorder must include two of the six symptoms and include general depression for at least two years.
Co-Occurring Disorders
Depression may be hiding behind another behavioral health condition, which is why it may be easily missed. Some of the following are reasons depression can go unnoticed:
- Anxiety disorders including panic disorder
- Substance use disorders including mood disorders
- Eating disorders where a person may meet criteria for depression
The signs of co-occurring conditions can be difficult as symptoms of a disorder may present in any manner. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supports integrated screening and assessment which should be used to view multiple disorders in the context of each other as well as other life aspects.
Friends and family can do their part to help support a loved one with a depressive disorder including finding a practitioner who can support he loved one. A practitioner may take the following factors into account: cultural influences, availability of social support, unique circumstances (pregnancy, death in family) and existing medical ailments. Extra help from professionals can identify depressive disorders and mental health conditions which are underlying and contribute to depression.
Depression at Cypress Lake Recovery is a serious condition which will worsen with addiction. Whether or not you have experienced the effects of depression prior to the onset of addiction, if it has happened before, it can cause a concurrent issue which needs thorough examination and treatment. We are here to provide support and treatment options to help you get better. Call us at 866-217-2636 to get started.
