10 Hidden Signs You Are Depressed But Not Aware

Depression is a term often used loosely to describe how we feel after a bad week at work or when we get dumped. But major depressive disorder — a type of depression — is much more complicated. There are specific symptoms and signs that determine whether it’s depression or just a case of the Mondays.

Read through these warning signs and test yourself to see if it’s time to see a professional.

1. You wouldn’t say you’re happy or unhappy

If one is depressed, they may unknowingly turn off all of their emotions in order to shut out emotions such as unhappiness. This weird gray zone could be a sign of apathy or ambivalence.

2. You’re Looking at Death

Suicides rarely come without showing symptoms first. Often people will talk about it or have a first attempt before succeeding in ending their life

3. Random things make you mad

A lot of people think of depression as sadness, crying, and melancholy, but anger can be a common sign too, especially in men. It might be that anger is a more comfortable—or, socially acceptable—channel of expression.

4. You’re acting recklessly

Another sign of untreated depression, particularly in men, is taking dangerous risks with driving, sex, gambling, drinking, or other similar activities.

5. You aren’t thinking clearly

You used to go to the gym three or four days a week, or rarely missed a golf or card game with friends. But if you start to feel like you have to force yourself to go, or just don’t want to do them anymore, it could be a warning sign of depression.

6. You stop enjoying activities you previously loved.

You used to go to the gym three or four days a week, or rarely missed a golf or card game with friends. But if you start to feel like you have to force yourself to go, or just don’t want to do them anymore, it could be a warning sign of depression.

7. You’re introspective to a fault

Depression forces you to focus on yourself and your needs, and you become less concerned about others. That turning away can lead to guilty feelings.

8. You are always tired and you sleep a lot

Part of the reason you might stop doing things you enjoy is because you feel very tired. Depression often comes with a lack of energy and an overwhelming feeling of lethargy, which can be the most debilitating symptoms of depression. This could lead to excessive sleeping or no sleep at all.

9. Appetite and weight becomes problematic

Weight and appetite can fluctuate differently for each person with major depression. Some will have an increased appetite and gain weight while others won’t be hungry and lose weight.

10. You have Uncontrollable Emotions

One minute it’s an outburst of anger. The next you’re crying uncontrollably. Nothing outside of you prompted the change, but your emotions are up and down at a moment’s notice.