WE all think we know the symptoms of depression.
Sadness, tearfulness and losing interest in hobbies are typical signs of the condition most people can recognise.
GettyDepression can present slightly differently in people so it’s important to know all the potential symptoms[/caption]
But there are three other more surprising symptoms you should be aware of.
While some people believe that depression is trivial, it is actually a serious condition that affects around one in 10 people over the course of their lives.
It impacts people of all genders and ages – including children – and can present slightly differently in everybody.
If left untreated without either therapy or medication, depression can spiral out of control.
But with the right support, most people make a full recovery, according to the NHS.
Speaking to The Sun, Dr Rina shares some less obvious symptoms which might help you spot the condition in a loved one.
1. Heightened productivity
While depression is commonly associated with decreased motivation and productivity, some people may experience the opposite effect.
“They may throw themselves into work, projects, or other activities as a way to distract themselves from their underlying emotional pain,” Dr Rina explained.
“This excessive focus on achievement can be a way to escape negative thoughts and emotions temporarily.”
It’s important to pay attention to whether this productivity is driven by genuine fulfilment or if it seems to be a way to avoid addressing underlying issues.
“Encourage your loved one to maintain a healthy work-life balance and seek support if needed,” she explained.
2. Inappropriate humour
Many of us use humour as a defence mechanism to cope with stressful or difficult situations.
However, engage in “excessive” joking, sarcasm is often a way people suffering with depression deflect from their true feelings, the expert said.
It can be challenging to differentiate between genuine humour and a cry for help, so it’s important to observe patterns and changes in their behaviour.
The psychologist added: “If you suspect someone may be using humour to mask their depression, gently express your concern and offer a safe space for them to open up.”
3. Unusual sensitivity to criticism
While people with depression are more likely to self-depreciate they are also more sensitive to criticism from others.
They might also react strongly to what they believe to be criticism – even if it is constructive or well-intentioned.
“This sensitivity can stem from heightened self-doubt and a negative perception of themselves,” Dr Rina said.
“It’s important to be mindful of how you provide feedback and offer support and understanding when they express feeling hurt by criticism,” she advised.
Other common symptoms to look out for
There are many symptoms of depression and the more likely they are to be depressed, the NHS says.
Here are other symptoms of depression, according to the National Institute for Mental Health:
Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” moodFeelings of hopelessness, or pessimismIrritabilityFeelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessnessLoss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activitiesDecreased energy or fatigueMoving or talking more slowlyFeeling restless or having trouble sitting stillDifficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisionsDifficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleepingAppetite and/or weight changesThoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attemptsAches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment
Tips on how to help a loved one
It’s sometimes hard to know how to help someone you love who is suffering with depression – especially if you’ve not experienced it yourself.
If you believe someone you know and love is experiencing low mood try speaking to them about it, suggests Dr Rina.
“It’s important to approach the conversation with sensitivity and empathy,” she said.
Here are Dr Rina’s tips on how to best support someone suffering:
1. Create a safe space:
It’s important to make sure you validate the feelings and experiences of your loved one, so that they feel understood and not alone.
“Encourage open dialogue and let them know you are there to listen without judgment or criticism,” Dr Rina said.
2. Educate yourself:
You can read up about depression on to better understand what your loved one may be going through.
“This can help you provide informed support and reduce stigma,” she explained.
Mental health charity Mind have some good educational resources on depression on their website.
3. Encourage professional help:
Try and persuade them to seek professional help from a mental health provider, if they feel up for it, the expert said.
To make things easier for your loved one, offer assistance in finding resources, making appointments, or accompanying them to therapy sessions if needed.
4. Support healthy habits:
Encourage your loved one to engage in activities they enjoy, maintain a balanced diet, get regular exercise, and practice self-care.
You can even try offering to participate in these activities together to give them more support.
5. Stay connected:
Make sure you keep in touch regularly, even if it’s just through
simple check-ins.
“Offer your presence and support, and remind them that
they are not alone,” Dr Rina added.
The NHS has created a mood assessment tool to reveal if you have signs of anxiety or depression.
It asks a broad set of 18 questions about your feelings in the past two weeks with multiple choice answers.
The Sun previously launched the You’re Not Alone campaign in September 2018, on World Suicide Day.
It helps to remind anyone facing a tough time, grappling with mental illness or feeling like there’s nowhere left to turn, that there is hope.