What are the initial signs of depression?


Considering that there are three common types of depression

which include:

* major depression (clinical depression)

* manic depression (bipolar disorder)

* dysthymia (dysthymic disorder)

We shall address each one as best possible and go over the
early signs and symptoms of each.

1. Major depression

Also known as clinical depression or unipolar depression, is

classified as a type of mental disorder that is usually
diagnosed when a patient displays any of the symptoms below

for a period averaging about a few to 6 months.

It's often times characterized by the following signs:

* persistent feelings of sadness

* feeling hopeless or helpless

* loss of interest in usual activities or activities once
enjoyed

* difficulty with relationships

* sleep disturbances (i.e., insomnia, hypersomnia)

* changes in appetite or weight

* decreased energy

* difficulty concentrating

* suicidal thoughts or attempts

* irritability, hostility, aggression


2. Manic depression

This is a major mental health problem. People diagnosed with

manic depression tend to experience mood swings from periods

of severe depression to periods of elation known as mania.


In its early and latter stages, it is often characterized by

the following signs:
-An overly inflated self-esteem
-A decreased need for rest and sleep

-Increased distractibility and irritability

-Increased talkativeness (may include increase in rate of
speech, changes topics quickly, cannot be interrupted)

-Uncharacteristically poor judgment

3. Dysthymic Disorder

This disorder is characterized by chronic depression, but
with less severity than a major depression. The essential
symptom for Dysthymic disorder is an almost daily depressed

mood for at least two years, but without the necessary
criteria for a major depression.

Being as though this is quite similar to clinical
depression, dysthymia could be characterized by the
following signs:

-Having a poor appetite or overeating

-Insomnia or hypersomnia

-Low energy or fatigue

-Low self-esteem

-Poor concentration or difficulty making decisions

-Feelings of hopelessness


Now, that we've gone over the early signs of each of these
common depressive disorders, suffice it to say that if they

are applicable to yourself or someone you know, it will be
best to try to deal with the situation in these early
stages.

This is a classic example of how "a stitch in time could
save nine".

It is my hope that in informing you of these characteristics

to look out for, it will be an easier task for you to
overcome the situation.

In Friendship

Foras Aje is an independent researcher and co-founder of
BodyHealthSoul LLC.
He invites you to visit his site which features the latest
health news, weblogs and videos on healthy living at
http://www.bodyhealthsoul.com