A Psychiatrist Discusses Depression Symptoms

Many people who experience feelings of sadness and apathy toward life are diagnosed by a psychiatrist with a mood disorder called depression. Since the symptoms of this disorder vary from patient to patient, getting a proper diagnosis can take time and sometimes several different professional opinions. If you notice a difference in mood or changes in your outlook on life, it can be helpful to hear a mental health professional discuss some of the more common symptoms of depression.

Typical depression symptoms

Two of the main types of depression include clinical depression and postpartum depression, which occurs after someone gives birth. Although everyone experiences depression differently, here are some of the more typical symptoms of the disorder.

Losing interest in activities

If individuals are no longer interested in engaging in activities that used to bring pleasure, or they have to force themselves to do things they once enjoyed, this could be a symptom of depression. Some common activities that people experiencing depression lose interest in are hanging out with friends, traveling, and even having sex with their partner.

Increased tiredness

Lack of energy or tiredness with no other explanation can also be a major sign of depression. Fatigue can result from many other mental and physical medical conditions, including vitamin deficiencies, insomnia, seasonal affective disorder, hypothyroidism, heart failure, and more. This is why a psychiatrist often has patients undergo a medical evaluation prior to making a diagnosis of depression.

Changes in weight

Depression can lead some people to overeat and gain weight, and others to have little appetite and lose weight. Weight changes are one of the more outwardly visible signs of possible depression. If persons experience weight loss or gain with no other reasonable cause, such as an intentional dietary change or side effect of medication, they should consult a medical professional about their concerns.

Difficulty concentrating

Cognitive changes such as having difficulty concentrating or making decisions may be a sign that someone is suffering from depression. Some people describe depression as a mental fog that impairs their ability to think, perform their job duties, and carry on conversations with friends and family.

Thoughts of suicide

Thoughts of suicide are a serious symptom whether they are related to depression or another mental health condition. These thoughts usually require the help of a professional. If a person is actively engaging in self-harm or has a plan to carry out self-harm, they should seek help right away. Thinking about suicide is often, although not always, a symptom of severe depression.

Details of a psychiatric evaluation

When patients go through a psychiatric assessment, they can expect to experience several common components:

• Undergoing a physical examination and lab tests to find any possible physical causes of the patient’s issues
• Being asked questions about previous mental health conditions
• Answering questions regarding current feelings and behaviors

It is imperative to the mental health journey to find a psychiatrist the patient trusts.