It's easy to ignore signs that you might need help. anxiety either depression. Often the signs are not glaringly obvious. We might notice small changes in our mood or behavior, but we attribute them to aging, like when your muscles feel a little weaker or your mind isn't as sharp as it used to be.
Sometimes we think, “Of course I'm worried; I have heart problems” or “Of course I feel depressed; “I'm not as important as before.” But here's the thing: feeling sad (like really sad) or anxious doesn't have to be just part of aging. Recognizing and addressing these feelings can really help you feel better and get the most out of life.
Recognizing anxiety and depression often means taking a moment to honestly reflect on how you feel and behave. Here are some signs to consider:
Signs of depression and anxiety
Apathy. Have you noticed that the things you used to love no longer excite you? Does life feel a little empty? These can be telltale signs of depression.
Feeling helpless or hopeless. Do you often think that there is not much you or anyone else can do to improve your situation? If you feel trapped in this mindset, it could indicate depression.
Habit changes. Are your eating or sleeping patterns altered? Whether you're eating too much, not enough, or having that extra drink more often than usual, these changes can be signs of depression.
Persistent Fatigue. Sure, it's normal to feel exhausted after a long day, but if you feel tired all the time, it could be related to anxiety or depression. Sometimes it could even be due to a medical problem like an underactive thyroid.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions. If you find it difficult to make decisions because you are constantly worried about making the wrong decision, or if you have trouble paying attention, that could be a sign of anxiety or depression.
Mood swings. If you feel irritable or find it difficult to control your emotions, frequent mood swings could indicate something deeper is going on.
Endless worry. Are you stuck in a cycle of worrying about everything instead of enjoying the moment? This type of constant worry could be related to an anxiety disorder.
want to be alone. Enjoying time alone to read or meditate is one thing, but if you isolate yourself because interacting with others is too exhausting, that could be a sign of depression.
Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not automatically mean that you have anxiety or depression. But if you're feeling overwhelmed or less happy in life, it may be time to seek help.
Start by talking to family and friends. Share your feelings with those you know will understand and support you. If you're hesitant about opening up to your loved ones, consider making an appointment with your doctor.
Help for anxiety and depression can take many forms. Sometimes, it means addressing any underlying health issues. Other times, it involves medication or psychotherapy.
There are also many non-medical approaches that can make a big difference. For example, exercise is key. A daily walk can do wonders for your mood and energy levels. Getting your body moving increases blood flow to your brain and helps those important brain cells grow.
Staying socially connected is another great strategy. Relationship building can slow down stress, stimulates your immune systemand even help you live longer. People with strong social connections tend to experience lower levels of anxiety and depression, better self-esteem, and a greater sense of overall well-being.
You don't have to suffer from depression or anxiety, no matter your age. Finding ways to manage these feelings can help you live life to the fullest and enjoy each day. After all, waking up to a new day should be a good thing!
For more information, see the Harvard Health Special Report: Understanding Depression.
Photo by Nam Quan Nguyen
Recent Comments