Depression is one of the most common mental disorders, impacting millions of people each year. Although depression is common, this does not mean it is easy to spot whether you are struggling with depression or not. While some individuals with depression may experience common depression symptoms like feelings of sadness, other individuals may have hidden signs of depression. In this article, we’ll explore the hidden signs of depression to look out for.
At East Coast Recovery Center, we are a top-rated recovery center in Massachusetts that provides addiction treatment and mental health support. No two recovery journeys are ever the same. That’s why we provide clients with personalized treatment plans to ensure they receive the right care to safely and effectively progress along their recovery journey. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your recovery needs.
Why Can Depression Be Difficult to Recognize?
When you think of depression, you likely think of someone who struggles with persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. They may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, and distance themselves from friends and loved ones. While these are common signs of depression, not everyone who struggles with depression experiences the same exact symptoms.
Depression signs and symptoms can vary from one individual to the next. Some individuals may show hidden signs of depression, making it difficult to recognize if they are struggling with depression or not. Keep reading to learn more about the various hidden signs of depression you don’t want to ignore.
5 Hidden Signs of Depression to Look Out For
- Low Energy LevelsÂ
While it is normal to feel tired and have low energy levels from time to time, if you persistently struggle with low energy levels for weeks or months on end, you may be struggling with depression. Your energy levels can be impacted from a variety of factors from stress to diet and exercise, to your mental well-being. Therefore, if you don’t appear to have any noticeable stressors or factors that could be impacting your energy levels, and you are tired all the time, you may be struggling with depression.
- Anger
While depression and sadness are often associated together, many people underestimate how anger and irritability can also be signs of depression. If you have a bad temper and struggle to manage your anger, you may be struggling with depression.
- Brain Fog
Similar to unexplained tiredness/low energy levels, brain fog is another hidden sign of depression that often goes overlooked. This symptom can make it difficult to focus and concentrate. Not only can brain fog impact your performance at work or school, but it can also get in the way of your productivity and daily life.
- Changes in Sleep or Eating Patterns
Everyone experiences some fluctuations in their sleep and eating patterns from time to time, whether it be due to stressors or other factors. However, if you notice you are sleeping or eating significantly more or less than usual, these may be more hidden signs of depression that you should not ignore.
- Engaging in Riskier Behavior
Finally, if you find you engage in riskier behavior than usual, such as abusing drugs or alcohol, you may be struggling with depression. Some individuals struggling with depression may turn to unhealthy coping strategies to try and relieve their depression symptoms. Therefore, while not everyone who abuses drugs has depression, some individuals who abuse drugs or alcohol may do so to try and cope with their mental illness symptoms.
Help Is Available
Now you know more about the hidden signs of depression to look out for, especially if you suspect you or someone you may know may be suffering from depression. While depression is common, this does not mean depression is easy to spot and diagnose in all individuals struggling with depression. Some hidden symptoms like low energy levels or brain fog can be linked to depression. This is why it’s important to talk with your doctor if you suspect you may be struggling with a mental health disorder.
At East Coast Recovery Center, we help clients safely and effectively recover so they can lead a healthier, happier life. You should never be afraid or ashamed to ask for help! Our compassionate team of addiction specialists and mental health professionals are here to help guide you along your recovery journey so you can improve your health. Ready to start your recovery? Contact us today!
