Feeling sad is a part of the human experience. These feelings can be defined as a state of being where feelings of dread, loss, and fear surround the psyche leaving very little room for happiness or joy. Enduring through these periods can be difficult, but these moments are, more often than not, overcome as time passes. However, if feelings of sadness, dread, and loss persist, it may be a sign of something more serious.

Depression is a condition marked by prolonged sadness, the effects of which can go on to negatively affect an individual’s personal and professional life. If you or someone you know is trying to find a depression treatment program in Los Angeles, let Peer Mental Wellness guide you in identifying the signs and symptoms of depression.

What Are the Symptoms of Depression?

Before reviewing signs of depression, it is important to have a firm understanding of what depression is. Depression is characterized by consistent feelings of loss, sadness, and interest and is demonstrated through a range of emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms. It is a condition that can leave people feeling alone and powerless. The symptoms of depression can vary greatly depending on the severity of depression one experiences; however, some symptoms are common across the board. Symptoms commonly associated with depression are:

• Continuous feelings of sadness
• Feelings of isolation
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Alterations in appetite
• Alterations in sleep
• Agitation

There is no official test that can tell someone if they have depression or anxiety. It is possible to exhibit multiple symptoms of depression without actually having depression. This is why it is of the utmost importance to speak to a professional who can properly diagnose depression. When these symptoms go untreated, the signs of depression begin to show themselves.

Five Common Signs of Depression

Depression is more than just its symptoms. The signs of depression are demonstrated through a combination of symptoms and behaviors which can affect a person’s relationships, career, and ability to take joy in everyday activities. Here are five signs commonly associated with depression:

1. Persistent Sadness

The hallmark sign of depression is persistent sadness. Feelings of dismay, sorrow, and dread, when felt more often than not, can make it difficult for anyone trying to lead a happy, healthy life.

2. Loss of Energy

One of the tell-tale signs that someone is experiencing depression is a lack or loss of energy. This can occur as a result of sadness, anxiety, insufficient sleep, or a variety of other influencing factors. This loss of energy can make daily tasks incredibly difficult as motivation, mood, and perspective are affected.

3. Loss of Interest in Activities

One of the most harmful effects of depression can be a lack of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed or even loved. Whether these activities are part of one daily routine or extracurricular activities enjoyed solely for the happiness they bring, depression can leave people feeling unmotivated, leading to isolation and a worsened sense of self-esteem.

4. Isolation

Given the topics covered so far, it’s not hard to imagine how depression can lead to feelings of isolation. As one might imagine, these symptoms and behaviors can work in tandem with one another, sometimes worsening the effect of certain symptoms. Feelings of depression can have an intensely overwhelming effect leading to people isolating themselves as they feel unable to act in a socially appropriate manner.

5. Anxiety

Depression has a way of making people feel powerless—powerless to control their emotions, their thoughts, and their feelings. Naturally, this would create feelings of anxiety. It’s hard not to worry about one’s personal and professional future when one feels powerless in controlling their feelings along the way.

Finding Depression Treatment in Los Angeles at Peer Mental Wellness

Depression, if untreated, can go on to wreak havoc on people’s lives as the symptoms of depression have the potential to worsen over time. Those impacted by depression can experience the deterioration of personal relationships, the degradation of work performance, and an inability to find comfort in things previously enjoyed. That is why it is of the utmost importance that those experiencing feelings of depression find a depression treatment program that is right for them.

At Peer Mental Wellness, located in Santa Ana, Los Angeles, California, our team is well equipped to diagnose the signs of depression and craft a treatment program that works best for our patients. If you or someone you know is considering depression treatment in Los Angeles, call today at 714.844.5473 for more information.