Have you been feeling low for many weeks? If so, then you should take it seriously. Being unhappy is normal, but staying unhappy and dismal for days on end could indicate something bigger. We often use the word “depression” to express that we’re feeling low, typically after a sad event, like a breakup, death of a close friend, or a nasty week at work. But, in reality, depression is far more complicated than that.

You will notice that there are some characteristic symptoms of depression. These signs could mean that you need professional help to overcome this state of mind. Identifying the symptoms of depression means taking the first step towards recovery. If you find yourself experiencing any of the following symptoms, then you should get professional help at the earliest:

1. Self-loathing
When you suffer from acute depression, it affects your entire perspective about life. You end up having a hopeless outlook ,and this is perhaps one of the most easily identifiable symptoms of depression. Along with this feeling of despair, you may feel self-loathing, inappropriate guilt, and worthlessness.

2. Loss of interest
Losing interest in something that excited you earlier can be seen as a sign of impending depression. Whether it is a hobby, a sport you played earlier, or socializing with friends, if you start withdrawing from these activities, then it is an indication of poor mental health.

3. Unexplained fatigue
If you are experiencing fatigue for no apparent reason or are unable to sleep well at night, then you should take it seriously. Depression is typically associated with lethargy and an overwhelming feeling of tiredness; this could also, at times, result in excessive sleeping.

4. Anxiety
While depression will not directly trigger anxiety, these two emotions are interlinked. You may experience symptoms of anxiety, like an accelerated heart rate, feeling of panic or fear, excessive sweating, muscles twitching and trembling, etc., that are commonly associated with depression.

5. Substance abuse
Depression is known to have different effects on different people. For many, it can show itself through symptoms, such as substance abuse, risky behavior, irritability, and misplaced anger.

6. Changes in appetite
A common symptom of depression is weight loss and changes in appetite. For instance, some people may start eating more when they feel depressed, while others start avoiding meals. Losing or gaining weight could be an indication of depression when it is not intentional.

7. Difficulty doing simple tasks
If you find that you are lacking in energy to carry out even the simplest of chores, then you should consider getting help. You may even find it hard to focus on simple activities, such as watching television or reading a newspaper.

8. Physical issues
Physical problems, such as an upset stomach, digestive issues, cramps, and headaches, can also be a sign of depression. Although these problems are fairly common, they demand special attention when viewed with depression.

9. Loss of control over emotions
Not being able to control your emotions, especially anger, is a rather common sign of depression. Depression triggers sudden mood swings that are hard to ignore.

10. Thoughts of death
If you find yourself constantly thinking about death, then it could mean that you are severely depressed. This is when suicidal thoughts start to haunt you. People who die by suicide invariably show symptoms of depression first, so you must take this as a red flag.