Depression Symptoms Can Be Difficult to Identify

Depression and anxiety come in many different forms. Being a victim of both of these conditions, I can attest to the fact that they are horrible things to experience, and very difficult to understand. Unfortunately, over two thirds of the people with these disorders will not take the necessary measures to seek help or treatment. This makes it very difficult to identify a friend or family member suffering.

One of the most major signs of these conditions is a complete change in attitude. Anxiety and depression symptoms are sometimes easy to identify, such as if someone were to start suddenly feeling apathetic, lethargic, pessimistic, or irritable. Unfortunately, it can be hard to identify because these could also be the symptoms of someone just having a bad day. The key to identifying someone who could have depression and anxiety is observing if the trend continues. If your friend or family member continue showing signs of these symptoms, they are most likely depressed or anxious. Depression and anxiety are often difficult to tell apart. They are very different disorders, though. This is because depression feels like there is a huge weight on you that you cannot get off. It becomes pointless to attempt certain tasks, even as simple as getting out of bed. Anxiety on the other hand, feels as if there are a million butterflies in your stomach having an all out battle.The smallest things can set you off and cause an anxiety attack. When these occur, it is difficult to think, communicate, or even perform simple tasks. If you notice these types of behavior in a friend or family member, it would be wise to bring them to a professional in order to help them overcome and fight depression and anxiety.

Another thing about these disorders that makes them hard to identify is the many different types of depression and anxiety that exist today. Some of the most common are seasonal affective disorder, postpartum depression, social anxiety, performance anxiety, and panic disorders. All of these conditions have different symptoms, and affect the victims in different ways. People with performance anxiety only experience it when they are called upon to perform a task in front of a large group or audience. Women with postpartum depression start to feel trapped and scared after giving birth. All of these conditions are different, and their diversity makes pinpointing exactly what is wrong with someone and what, if any prescription drug for depression they need difficult.

The best thing you can do to help yourself or someone you believe to be suffering from one or both of these disorders is to recommend them to a psychiatrist or a professional in the field of mental disorders. Being proactive is the first step to recovery, and not everyone suffering will take that first step. So take the time to recognize these symptoms in order to help those who may be in need.