Addiction Recovery Basics

It is more common than not for people in active addiction or just entering into addiction recovery to have show signs and symptoms of depression or another co-occurring mental health disorder. Two of the most common are anxiety and depression. Asking which came first the mental health issue or the addiction is almost an unanswerable question. In reality both the addiction and mental health problem need to be addressed.

Symptoms and signs of depression can be easily disregarded and overlooked by one who is not aware. So, it is very important to learn to recognize the symptoms of depression to keep yourself on track, and so we can offer help and encouragement to friends and family who may be suffering. Perhaps you have not been feeling all that great lately, and are wondering if you might have a mood disorder as well. Getting acquainted with the signs of depression is helpful to identify potential problems.

The first step is to educate yourself about the varied ways depression can manifest itself. If you do have depression, it can be treated with several different methods, including counseling and medication. There are both emotional and physical symptoms that may be confused with other medical issues. Many who suffer from depression think they are just having a case of the blahs. However, true depression requires treatment. It will not get better on its own.

Signs of depression can include any of the following symptoms:

Lack of Interest

One of the two most common signs of depression includes a decreasing interest in activities or people that you once found enjoyable. If you find yourself avoiding phone calls, outings, or get-togethers, it may suggest depression. Even daily activities will seem like much more of a chore. This can included everything from playing with your children, to cooking dinner.

Depressed or Sad Mood

Many people mistakenly believe that anyone who is sad has depression. While it’s true that sad times in our lives, such as during a death or other loss, we may feel at a loss. However, true depression is noted by a sad or depressed mood, and importantly, over significant lengths of time. The moods may not necessarily be triggered by a sad event, either.

Negative Thinking

A depressed person will most likely display behavior that is negative towards his or herself. They may call themselves a failure, and make comments that nothing ever goes right. A poor attitude and negative or pessimistic responses to daily occurrences are common signs of depression.

Physical Illnesses

Oddly enough, other signs of depression include physical effects. Backaches, gastrointestinal trouble, or headaches can be a sign. A stse of anxiety or elevated blood pressure can be another physiological response.

Destructive Behavior

Often, if the depressed person doesn’t know how to deal with their frustrations, they may take it out on themselves. Abuse of the body through cutting, overeating, drinking alcohol, talking about suicide, or even engaging in risky sexual behavior are all serious signs of depression. Those who damage their bodies are at a higher risk for suicide, and their abuse is a call for help.

Fatigue and Sleeplessness

Depression can either cause a manic state, where the person is hyper and cannot sit still or sleep well. They may have trouble falling or staying asleep due to the anxiety depression can cause. Other signs of depression include being tired all the time, having no energy to do simple tasks, or having constant full-body aches.

If you recognize any of the above behaviors in yourself or someone you love, seek the help and advice of a doctor. He or she will prescribe the best treatment options for your situation. Don’t be afraid to admit that you need help to deal with your feelings. Depression is a serious disorder that can lead to physical ailments, even death, so it is important to recognize the symptoms and signs of depression when you see them.

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