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Early Signs Of Depression

10 Early Signs of Depression You Should Never Ignore

Did you know that around 281 million people globally suffer from depression—something they don’t even realize until it’s consuming their lives?

Depression can show up differently. It can feel like you’re crying uncontrollably or feeling extreme sadness, but it may also come in the form of chronic tiredness, irritability, or feeling bored by things you normally enjoy.

So, if you have ever found yourself thinking, “Why do I feel off, but I can’t put my finger on it?” You’re not the only one—and that thought could be your first hint at the issue.

The early signs of depression are simple but powerful. Ignoring these symptoms of depression will only prolong your recovery. Let’s explore the 10 early symptoms of depression so you don’t ignore them when it’s time to reach out for help, and also see how support like MiMood can turn things around for you.

What is Depression?

Clinical depression, or major depressive disorder (MDD), is characterized by a continuous depressed mood or disinterest in previously enjoyable activities that lasts for at least two weeks and can dramatically impair functioning in daily life.

There is no single cause for depression, but it comes from a variety of biological, psychological, and environmental causes: chemical imbalances specifically in certain neurotransmitters like serotonin or norepinephrine, genetics, previous trauma, chronic health conditions, and life stressors.

The 10 Early Signs of Depression

Depression does not usually announce itself with flashing signs; it slowly creeps in, often pretending to be nothing more than a “rough patch.” However, when those pesky symptoms are sticking around for longer than several weeks, please take note. Here are ten early signs that may indicate something more is going on:

1. Persistent Sadness

You often feel low, empty, or hopeless for many days in a row, which doesn’t seem to go away.

2. Loss of Interest

Things you once enjoyed—hobbies, socializing, even your favorite show—don’t excite you anymore.

3. Changes in Appetite or Weight

Eating way more or way less than usual (gained or lost a lot of weight).

4. Sleep Problems

Trouble falling asleep, waking up too early, or sleeping too little (or even too much!)—still never feeling rested.

5. Low Energy

The work of daily living feels like hard work, no matter how much time you take off to recharge.

6. Difficulty Concentrating

Thinking and feeling foggy, forgetfulness, and trouble coming to decisions (even the smallest ones).

7. Feelings of Guilt or Worthlessness

A heavy feeling of self-blame and not being good enough.

8. Irritability or Restlessness

Feeling tense, wound up, on edge, or easily annoyed. For children and adolescents, irritability can also look like anger.

9. Unexplained Aches and Pains

Frequent headaches, upset stomachs, or body pains with no medical explanation.

10. Thoughts of Death or Suicide

Even thoughts of self-harm or not wanting to be here (even fleetingly) are serious and need to be taken seriously.

These signs do not always scream “depression.” But when they stick around, they shouldn’t be ignored either, and remember, seeking support early on can make a world of difference.

When to Get Help

Acting early has a real impact. You should seek help if:

  • You have two or more symptoms, and they have persisted for over two weeks.
  • The symptoms disrupt your daily life—whether at work, home, school, or socially.
  • You experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
  • You have physical symptoms that don’t have a medical cause—get it checked!
  • You have made attempts to change your lifestyle (e.g., exercising regularly, improving sleep, eating a balanced diet), but nothing has helped.
  • An evaluation of your mental health typically includes therapy, medications, or a combination, depending on the severity of your symptoms.

How MiMood Can Help

MiMood can help you through the continuum of care for depression.

  • Psychotherapy: CBT, IPT, DBT, so that you can challenge your unhelpful thoughts, improve your emotional regulation, and cope in a more positive manner 
  • Medication management: SSRIs, SNRIs, and atypicals like bupropion are prescribed and monitored for safety and efficacy.
  • Advanced treatments: MiMood can support you with TMS and ECT if nothing else has worked. Both of these are evidence-based interventions.
  • Holistic wellness: Nutrition, sleep, and stress management, along with core treatments 
  • A supportive team: Licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who will help you individually, monitor, and adapt your treatment plan.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to be diagnosed with depression?

It takes almost 2 weeks of persistent symptoms to diagnose clinical depression.

2. What is the most common treatment for depression?

antidepressant medications or psychotherapy are the two most recommended treatments for depression

3. Can lifestyle changes help with depression?

Yes, positive changes in lifestyle can improve cognitive performance, attention, working memory, and creativity, while simultaneously decreasing levels of anxiety and depression.

Final Thoughts

Early identification and early intervention can change the course of depression. Look for signs such as a low mood that persists, lack of interest, changes in sleep or appetite, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. If these signs persist beyond a couple of weeks and are interfering with your daily life, it’s critical that you get help as soon as possible.

MiMood will be here for you with personalized therapy, medication management, advanced treatments, and holistic support that is designed to help you regain hope, functionality, and happiness.

You do not have to be alone when facing depression—contact us today to get started on the path to brighter days ahead.