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7 signs that show you have depression
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When left untreated, depression can cause serious harm to your health, social life and professional life. In some cases, it can even lead to death. Watch out for these seven common signs in yourself ... and those you love. - photo by Erika Strassburger
Are your feelings of sadness and discouragement just common feelings, or do they hint at something more serious? Read through these warning signs of depression and see for yourself:

1. Deep sadness

We all feel sad and discouraged from time to time. Sometimes we dont even want to get out of bed and go to work. Instances of sadness (and not wanting to go to work on Mondays) are normal. But long periods of intense and frequent sadness that affect your daily life hint towards depression. If your feelings of sadness also include feeling lonely, crying, isolation and hopelessness, address your concerns with your doctor.

2. Problems sleeping

Depression often causes problems sleeping WebMD reports that 15 percent sleep too much, but as much as 80 percent of those with depression have trouble falling (or staying) asleep. New research even suggests that problems sleeping can be an early warning sign of depression in some people. Paying attention to your sleeping habits can help clue you into a correct diagnosis, so you can get the treatment you need.

3. Negative thoughts

Everyone hates me, I cant do anything right, Im a failure and Im ugly/fat/dumb are all phrases you should never say to yourself, but commonly, those with depression also suffer pervasive negative thoughts.

4. Disinterest and apathy

People with depression lose complete interest in people, working, having fun and life in general. If your feelings of sadness and loneliness are preventing you from living a normal and healthy life (like participating in your hobbies and being around people you love), that's a warning sign of depression.

5. Low self-esteem

Low self-esteem generates anxiety, fear and depression. A person with shaken self-esteem feels inferior and unworthy of those around them physically and intellectually. These feelings can lead to more feelings of isolation and a deepening sense of loneliness.

6. Lose interest in appearance

A person with depression will sometimes lose their drive to get dressed, shower, get ready for the day or put effort into their appearance. Along with an unwillingness to get out of bed and face the world, those with depression frequently lose the will to make an effort.

7. Physical pain

In addition to deep sadness, depression manifests itself physically through various types of pain. The most common symptoms are:

  • Worsened chronic pain

  • Headaches

  • Back pain

  • Muscle and joint pain

  • Chest pain

If youre experiencing any of these seven symptoms, please seek a professional immediately. Depression isn't something that will just "go away". Therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists are happy to help you and set you on your way to happiness. Depression is a serious, yet often silent illness. Don't fall victim to such a silent suffering you deserve all the happiness in the world.