Depression is one of the most underdiagnosed mental health illnesses, with almost half of the people with depression worldwide going undiagnosed and untreated. Depression can negatively impact an individual’s health and relationships and keep them from living a normal life.
This makes it critical for us to be aware of things people do when they’re depressed since it can help us detect the symptoms of depression in the people around us and help them get treatment to improve. Keep reading to learn about common things people do when dealing with concealed depression.
Things People Do When They’re Depressed
Lack of Interest in Everyday Activities
When a person suddenly loses interest in daily activities and no longer wants to do the things they used to like doing, this indicates that they may suffer from depression. Depression can cause an individual to lose interest in hobbies that bring them joy, such as meditation, cooking, listening to music, or spending time with their loved ones.
So if your loved ones have suddenly stopped paying interest to day-to-day activities and hobbies that they have had for years, it is best to get them help before the condition worsens.
Reckless Behavior
When an individual suffers from depression, their understanding of right and wrong may deteriorate, leading to reckless behaviors like drinking and driving, getting into fights, or smoking.
Depressed individuals may also engage in escapist behavior like drug consumption or excessive drinking since being under the influence may help them avoid the overwhelming feelings associated with depression. Therefore, if someone around you suddenly shows signs of increased reckless behavior, it may indicate a possible underlying mental health illness like depression.
Sudden Appetite or Weight Changes
Although changes in appetite or weight might indicate various health issues, depression is a common cause of rapid appetite changes, weight gain, or weight loss.
According to research, certain individuals might indulge in stress eating when depressed, causing them to gain weight, while others may lose interest in food, causing dramatic weight loss. These habits could be incredibly harmful to health. Hence these individuals must get help as soon as possible.
Changes in Sleep
Depression can also impact individual sleeping habits and lead to them developing sleeping disorders like insomnia. Individuals who might be depressed may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep for a long and may also wake up at unusual hours. Furthermore, sleeping more than usual is also an indicator of depression.
Final Verdict
Knowing the things people do when they’re depressed can make us more conscious of the mental health of the individuals around us and enable us to get our loved ones the help they need.
If you suspect a loved one has depression, we recommend contacting the experts at Ziks — the leading Albuquerque mental health service provider. Our experts will conduct diagnostic evaluations and suggest effective treatment plans to help people battling with depression be on the road to recovery.
Contact us now for more information.