Most people tend to think of depression as feeling sad all the time or having a difficult time having fun. While these are possible symptoms, many people with depression don't actively feel sad at all times. Instead, they may have several more subtle symptoms. Watch for these signs in yourself and your family members, and talk to a physician if you notice them.

How to Recognize Depression

1. Sleep Cycle Changes

You may notice a change in your sleep schedule. This can mean either too little sleep due to insomnia or sudden business; or it can mean sleeping too much, upwards of 12 hours per day. You are likely to feel fatigued despite the excessive sleep and may have trouble getting up the enthusiasm or energy for daily activities.

2. Appetite Changes

Once again, this can involve eating too much or not eating enough. A change in your eating habits can be accompanied by weight loss or gain. While we tend to think of weight loss as healthy, losing weight quickly due to under-eating is bad for your body and can cause a number of health problems, so this should be treated as a symptom even if it seems positive at first glance.

3. Mood Changes Besides Sadness

You may not think of shouting or snapping as depression symptoms, but irritability is one of the possible emotional changes someone with this condition may encounter. You may also experience increased self-doubt and an increase in perfectionism that can interfere with your daily life. Many people with depression have their emotions muted, with both sadness and happiness being reduced, replaced by an empty feeling.

If you see the signs of depression in yourself or a loved one, schedule a visit to Lexington Family Physicians in North Carolina. Their four friendly doctors provide a full range of both physical and mental healthcare options including preventative medicine for Davidson County patients. To schedule call (336) 249-3329, or learn more about the practice online.