Signs Of Depression

Signs Of Depression - Warning Signs
Signs of depression can be tricky to spot. Friends, family, and associates may assume "that's just how he/she is." They may not notice the more serious warning signs of depression.

Each person is uniquely created by God, so no list of symptoms fits every individual. However, here is a list of symptoms indicating possible depression:

• Tiredness - despite proper amounts of sleep, a balanced diet, and plenty of physical exercise, the person may feel exhausted regularly.
• Mood swings - a person may experience happiness one moment and then be sad or irritated the next.
• Difficulty coping with life - the day-to-day routine of getting up, going to work, and coming home can seem worthless. The depressed person may feel as if he or she is not important, his or her job does not matter, life does not matter. There is a strong sense of hopelessness.
• Depression is often triggered by tragedy, the death of a loved one, a divorce, diet, drugs, alcohol, etc.

Signs Of Depression - A Path Toward Healing
When we see signs of depression, what can we do? First, we need to accept it. Depression is a real problem - a serious one. Second, we need to realize there is no shame associated with depression. Perhaps the only shame may be in not dealing with it, allowing it to continue affecting you and your loved ones. Third, realize that you are not alone. Other people struggle with similar problems and issues. Fourth, seek help when you recognize depression symptoms. Pastors, trained counselors and doctors can offer guidance that may assist with some of the issues or anxieties life can bring.

There is a verse in the Bible that gives counsel to those struggling with depression. It says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6). God knows what you are going through and longs for you to talk to Him in prayer. You may have heard the expression, "Confession is good for the soul." It's true.

God offers protection of our thought life too. When dark, depressing thoughts crowd in on us, the Bible says: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things" (Philippians 4:8).

Learn to Cope!