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5 Signs It's Depression, Not Just Sadness

Date: 10/08/20

Around the world, millions of people struggle with some form of depression. This mood disorder causes intense feelings of sadness. People struggling with depression can endure symptoms such as changes in appetite and disrupted sleep schedules, among other symptoms. October 8th is National Depression Screening Day (NDSD). NDSD is held annually during Mental Illness Awareness Week in October.

NDSD IS IMPORTANT.

Depression and mental disorders are not something to hide. Sometimes people with depression mistakenly believe that the symptoms of depression are a normal part of life. NDSD helps fight these negative stigmas around depression.

Even those who aren't suffering from depression can be impacted by it. When someone suffers from depression, it can put affect the entire family. NDSD provides an opportunity for everyone learn about the signs, symptoms and effects of depression.

In addition, NDSD can help people suffering with depression receive an informed diagnosis. NDSD also fights negative stigmas surrounding depression.  But most importantly, it can bring help to those that need it.

While everyone experiences sadness, and sadness can be a symptom of depression, being sad does not mean you suffer from depression.

5 SIGNS IT’S DEPRESSION, NOT JUST SADNESS

  1. You are having thoughts of suicide or self-harm. ​If you find yourself focusing on suicide or self-harm, with or without a specific plan, seek help. You may very likely be depressed. If you are having these feelings, reach out for help right away.
  2. You feel empty inside. ​Sadness can often occur after we experience a devastating event. But if you start experiencing a sad empty feeling that doesn’t go away, it may be depression.
  3. You are more irritable than usual. Feelings of restlessness or excessive irritability can be signs of depression.
  4. Your weight is going up or down drastically. If you experience significant weight loss or weight gain without trying, or without a diet, you could be depressed. Depression can affect your appetite and make you eat more or less than usual.
  5. You are having trouble concentrating. ​Depression can make it harder for you to focus on tasks. It can also make it more difficult for you to make decisions.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP

Louisiana Healthcare Connections offer our members mental health services to help them cope with mental health conditions like depression. If you have questions about the benefits available to you, call our Member Services line at 1-866-595-8133 (Hearing Loss: 711). If you believe you may have depression, talk to your doctor or someone close to you about getting help.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need help right away, call our 24/7 Crisis Hotline to speak with a licensed mental health counselor at 1-844-677-7553 (Hearing Loss: 711).

Remember: For life-threatening situations, always call 911.

The Louisiana Department of Health also offers behavioral health regional services toward suicide prevention. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is also a helpful resource. It is available 24/7, just call 800-273-8255.

For more information about NDSD and to learn more visit The Mental Health America (MHA) website. MHA also offers an online depression screening tool. The screening tool is free, anonymous, and confidential. A screening disorder is not a diagnosis, but it can be a helpful tool for starting a conversation with your doctor about your mental health.