Mental health is no joke and should be talked about and taught every day not only for one week of the year!
One of the reasons for this blog is to help me deal better with depression. To do that, I must speak about very personal problems. One of the most personal: my depression diagnosis. I am NOT ashamed of it because at least the “crazy” in my head finally has a name. It did, however, take me a long time to recognize the signs, get help and be where I am today, healing.
Depression is not a one-size-fits-all pair of boxers! It affects people in different ways, and not everyone exhibits or even allows you to see their signs. You may actually be shocked at the people you know with depression/anxiety!
Here are a few signs to look for that I personally have experienced:
Avoiding social situations
Are you avoiding parties, dinner with good friends, stores or people? Have you been making excuses not to go places? You might be doing this to avoid people for unknown reasons or to keep yourself isolated in a familiar place/situation.
Avoidance of family/friends
Avoiding contact especially physically, not taking and returning phone calls, inability to let anyone in more than on a superficial level. Sometimes you are afraid to bother people or bring them down into your sadness.
Losing interest in hobbies
When a hobbyist stops engaging in there hobby, there might be a problem. Lack of interest can be within any realm of life, not just hobbies but many times hobbies will lose their luster and seem more like a chore.
Being Blue or Down
Normal bad days or sadness not applicable here. Cloud over your head that will not go away? Shoulders burdened from the weight of the world? If your sadness is lasting for days with no end or reason, you might need help. People stuck here cannot always recognize it or help that they are “negative.”
Lack of Self-Care
If you cannot remember the last time, you showered, brushed your teeth or ate something– you’re not alone. I have been there. Some days the smallest things seem impossible.
Mood Swings
Well hello, Satan! Hi there Big Crybaby? Mood flux, much? Finding your moods fluxing is a huge sign to watch. Crying at anything, being overly sensitive, going from sad to happy or even feeling empty can all be signs.
I am not an expert on this topic. I am just living and learning from therapy, blogging, research and fellow sufferers like you. If someone is showing a few of these signs they may be suffering, silently or openly with depression.
Be Kind! Reach out but be gentle and watch for non-verbal clues. Sometimes people really want help they just do know how to admit it.
Until next time, you are not alone. –J
SoulNotAlone 
I suffer from depression and am very lucky that medication works for me. Some days are better than others. Keep blogging, people need to be educated.
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Thank you, Kathy. It is so nice when people are able to share their stories. Thank you for having the courage to share yours!! Keep fighting and know you are NOT alone! Jenn
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