The term ‘depression’ is very commonly used around the world. We generally call ourselves ‘depressed’ if we have had a rough day. However, psychologists would totally differ from that point of view. According to the American Psychiatric Association, depression is a common and serious medical illness that affects how you think, feel, and also how you act. It causes a feeling of sadness and also makes one feel like a loser. People with depression have pretty much low or non-existent interest in activities that they once took an interest in doing. Depression which starts from the mind (mostly) could manifest as a physical illness eventually.

Here are some early warning signs of depression that you should watch out for. You could also use this to observe your family and friends and help those who need a helping hand.

Neverending feeling of sadness
People with depression are always sad or have a depressed mood. It almost feels like a dark cloud is moving around them.

Loss of interest
This is an inevitable change that most of them go through. You would suddenly find them giving up the activities or passion that they enjoy the most. There would also be no valid reason for giving up the pleasure derived while doing the activity. There would also be an increased feeling of purposelessness. Slow movements or slow and slurred speech would also be one of the characteristic symptoms of depression.

Appetite change
There would be extremes in their appetite. They would either end up losing a lot of weight or gain. All of this would be totally unrelated to dieting.

Sleep patterns
Yet another typical symptom or warning sign would be the sleep patterns. Extremities in terms of oversleeping or insomnia are common in those who have depression.

Low self esteem
There is hardly any self-esteem in those who are going through depression. It is usually very difficult for them to think or process information. Their ability to focus and also take decisions would be minimal as well. Feeling worthless and guilty becomes their way of life.

Thoughts of death and suicide
Having lost purpose in their lives, those with depression tend to have suicidal tendencies. While this may be tough to be nailed down, such feelings must be noticed.

It is imperative to note that the above symptoms could vary from mild to severe and could also come in episodes. The most important of all is the fact that the person who is going through depression may deny the very fact that they are going through one, and claim that everything is under control. The American Psychiatric Association also states that depression affects an estimated one in 15 adults in any given year.

Depression also tends to first appear in the mid 20s when the person is exposed to life situations and coping up to find their ground. Women tend to go through more depressive phases than men and it also has a lot to do with their hormones. Few studies show that 1/3rd of women will surely go through a depressive episode in their lifetime.