Can you tell when a bout of depression is about to come on? Are there specific things you notice happening right before the storm hits and the lights go out? Does it typically occur when you’re working extra hard not taking breaks, leading to a snowball effect of poor sleep and bad eating habits?
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. In fact, this is the very cycle that often leads me down the path to darkness. However, awareness is the light that burns bright illuminating the way back to peace.
I’d like to share seven torches to help you with your travels.
Major Depression Vs. Bipolar
Before we jump into the actual symptoms of Major Depression, I’d want to talk about the differences in Major Depression also known as Unipolar versus Bipolar Depression.
Psycom.net defines Major Depression as a persistent feeling of sadness or lack of interest in outside stimuli whereas Bipolar is an oscillating state between depression and mania.
The reason I bring this up is that at one time I was misdiagnosed with Bipolar Depression. In my misdiagnosis, the doctors gave me Lithium. The side effects of Lithium were similar to how I felt during the throes of Major Depression, i.e., appearing like a zombie, unable to maintain a healthy weight, etc.
The suggestions I’d like to share helped in both instances, and perhaps you’ll find them useful too regardless of diagnosis or medications you’re on.
So What are the Symptoms of Major Depression?
This list of symptoms is pretty general, and they can vary from person to person, but I believe they cover many of the experiences people with Major Depression have on a day to day basis.
- Negative thinking with the inability to see positive solutions
- Agitation
- Restlessness
- Inability to focus
- Lashing out at loved ones
- Irritability
- Withdrawing from loved ones and regular activities
- Increase in sleeping
- Exhaustion and lethargy
- Morbid, suicidal thoughts
- Weight loss or gain
Suggestions on How to Beat It!
1. Talk to your doctor or medical professional – know you have options (helps with morbid thoughts)
2. If you’re not seeing a therapist schedule an appointment (helps with morbid thoughts)
3. Get lots of rest – early to bed (helps with irritability and lashing out at loved ones)
4. Pay attention to what you’re eating (helps with weight loss or gain)
5. Move the body – get outside if you can (helps with agitation and restlessness)
6. Interact with others – sounds counter-intuitive but it helps with withdrawing
7. Try a meditation practice (helps with the inability to focus and failure to see positive solutions)
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Originally Published on charlesminguez.com
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