Do I Have Depression? 12 Warning Signs

It’s extremely common and left untreated, it can be life-threatening — but depression can be effectively treated. Depression, also known as depressive disorder, is estimated to affect about 5% of adults across the globe, according to the World Health Organization. In total, about 280 million people suffer from depression, with depression among women about 50% more common than men. Because of the inherent dangers of this disease — more than 700,000 people die by suicide each year, and the overlapping and compounding problems of depression and substance abuse are widely known — it’s important to recognize the warning signs and understand when to seek help from mental health professionals like the team at WhiteSands Treatment. If you’re wondering do I have depression, we’re here to help you learn the red flags of this condition.

What Are the 12 Signs of Depression?

Do I have depression? It’s a common question when someone experiences feelings of sadness or emptiness. But depression isn’t just regular sadness — it can change how people feel, think, and keep up with basic daily responsibilities. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, a depression diagnosis requires that symptoms are present for at least two weeks. There are several types of depression, including: 

• Major Depression: Depressed mood or lack of interest in activities for at least two weeks. These symptoms also affect the person’s daily activities.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder: Also known as dysthymia, people with this kind of depression have less severe symptoms — but the symptoms last for two years or longer.
• Perinatal Depression: This happens while a woman is pregnant or after childbirth.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder: Depression that peaks each winter as days get shorter.

While there are many different types of depression, there are some common symptoms and red flags. Let’s explore the 12 warning signs of depression:

1. Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiousness, or emptiness.
2. Feeling hopeless or pessimistic about the future.
3. Being irritated, frustrated, or restless.
4. Feeling guilty, worthless, or helpless.
5. Problems with concentrating or making decisions.
6. Oversleeping or not getting enough sleep.
7. Unplanned weight changes and noticeable changes to a person’s appetite.
8. Headaches, digestive issues, or physical pain that doesn’t have a clear cause.
9. Fatigue and tiredness.
10. Losing interest in activities, people, and hobbies that once were pleasurable for the person.
11. Isolating from loved ones.
12. Suicidal ideation (thinking about death or suicide).

When Does Depression Become Concerning?

Because the symptoms of this disease can make people isolated, sad, and pessimistic, it might seem difficult to know when someone’s depression is becoming a crisis rather than a chronic mental health struggle. However, according to the University of Florida Health, some general cues can indicate an emergency is happening. A 2023 article said a mood change that lasts for weeks or comes with thoughts of self-harm cannot be ignored. It becomes a possible emergency when the mood change includes thoughts of suicide or death, whether the thoughts are passive (the person doesn’t want to be alive) or active (they think about suicide or want to harm themselves). Because suicide is a very real consequence of untreated major depression, it’s important to get help for a loved one who is showing these concerning signs of a problem. If it’s a crisis, call 911 or get help at an emergency room or by calling the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Another concerning possibility of this condition is the strong link between depression and drug abuse. People with a substance use disorder are almost twice as likely to have mood or anxiety disorders, and more than half of people with a mental health disorder also have at least one substance use disorder. Because depression and addiction can go hand in hand, people who are suffering from both should seek out dual diagnosis treatment to simultaneously treat these issues at the same time. WhiteSands Treatment offers this help for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders at its network of facilities across the state of Florida in recognition of the importance of addressing both conditions to give patients the best chance of lasting recovery.

What Is the Best Treatment for Depression?

Depression can make the people who have it miserable, and it can become dangerous, but the good news is it can be treated — even in cases of severe depression. Depression treatment most often involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Antidepressants are a common treatment option, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that increase serotonin levels and can boost the person’s mood and emotional state. SSRIs include brands like Lexapro, Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft. Another medication option is serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI), which prevent the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Popular brand names of SNRIs include Pristiq, Cymbalta, and Fetzima.

Psychotherapy is also a standard part of the depression treatment plan, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). During these sessions, a therapist helps the patient identify flawed thought and behavior patterns and change them to something more beneficial and healthier. This exercise can teach people to change how they see the world and, in turn, experience less distress when they encounter challenges and stressful situations in the future.

What Can I Do to Help Myself with Depression?

If you’ve wondered do I have depression and see warning signs in your own emotional state, it’s important to learn coping skills in addition to getting professional help with medications and therapy. The UK’s National Health Service offers several tips on how to cope: 

• Don’t Withdraw: Socializing can help, so keep in touch with friends and loved ones.
• Get Active: Exercise can improve your mood. Even if it’s not a current part of your routine, go for a short walk to get the benefits.
• Don’t Avoid: People who are suffering from depression might avoid talking to others or going out. Face the fears head-on instead of shying away from these things.
• Watch Your Drinking: Depression and addiction can fuel each other, so don’t drink too much — it won’t solve the underlying problem and could just make it worse.
• Eat Healthy Food: Try to maintain a healthy diet to avoid losing weight from not feeling like eating or eating too much and gaining weight.
• Stick to a Routine: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and keep a routine for eating and cooking. These things will help you feel better.

WhiteSands Treatment Can Help If You Have Depression

If you have depression or see the warning signs of this disease in a loved one, remember that help is available — and treatment options can make a big difference. At WhiteSands Treatment, we offer alcohol and depression treatment in Tampa and across Florida that empower our patients to learn new coping mechanisms and gain newfound strength to put addiction and mental health struggles behind them. We have comprehensive treatment programs, including inpatient and outpatient drug and alcohol rehab options, and an expert staff of professionals who take the time to learn what each person wants and needs. This tailored treatment is crucial for helping people like you get better, just like you deserve. Don’t wait — call us today at 877-855-3470 to get started.

External Sources

• World Health Organization — Depressive Disorder (Depression)
• National Institute of Mental Health — Depression
• University of Florida Health — When Does Clinical Depression Become an Emergency?
• UK National Health Service — How to Cope with Depression

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.