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Appetite and weight changes -

Research shows that depression may cause a change in appetite due in part to an influx of the stress hormone cortisol in the system.

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Appetite and weight changes -

Some people turn to food for comfort, while others lose their appetite. These changes in food intake can cause a person to gain or lose weight. They can also affect mood and energy levels.

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Changes in sleep habits -

Depression is known to interfere with restful sleep. A lack of sleep can contribute to depression, and depression can make it more difficult to sleep.

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Changes in sleep habits -

However, sleeping more than usual is also a sign that a person may have depression. 

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Fatigue -

Feeling excessively tired is a very common symptom of depression.

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Fatigue -

While it's normal to feel tired from time to time, persistent tiredness can be a sign of hidden depression, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms.

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Alcohol or drug use -

Some people with mood disorders may use alcohol or drugs to help them cope with negative emotions like sadness or loneliness.

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Alcohol or drug use -

The Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA) reports that in the US, about one in five people with anxiety or a mood disorder, such as depression, also have an alcohol or substance use disorder.

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Changes in language and topics of conversation -

Research shows that people with depression use more "I," "me," and self-focused words because they're in a more introspective state. 

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Changes in language and topics of conversation -

People with depression also use more absolutist terms, like "always" and "never." 

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Physical pain and health disorders -

Depression is a mental health condition, but it can also have physical consequences.

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Physical pain and health disorders -

In addition to weight changes and fatigue, depression can come with headaches, a racing heart, a tight chest, and digestive problems. 

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Negative self-talk -

Negative self-talk is an inner dialogue that is damaging and extremely self-critical.

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Negative self-talk -

Many people with depression experience negative self-talk and turn to harmful, critical thoughts on themselves.

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Loss of concentration -

When a person loses their train of thought, this can indicate issues with memory and concentration, which are a common symptom of depression.

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Loss of concentration -

Difficulties with concentration and focus can worsen the social impact of depression, making a person's work life and personal relationships more challenging.

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Change in libido -

A change in libido is often considered a key indicator when diagnosing depressive symptoms in people.

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Change in libido -

There are several reasons why a person's libido might decrease when they have depression, such as low self-esteem and low energy levels. 

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Forced happiness -

In some cases, the bigger the smile, the bigger the depression it hides. People who hide their symptoms may ensure that their face appears happy in public as a mask. 

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Forced happiness -

However, it can be difficult to keep up with this forced happiness, and over time, the mask might slip. 

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Less optimistic than others -

Some believe that people with depression may exhibit a trait called depressive realism, which suggests they have a more accurate perception of certain situations than those without depression.

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Less optimistic than others -

Being more realistic or pessimistic than others can be a sign of depression, especially if the person exhibits other symptoms of the condition.

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Personality differences -

Some people with hidden depression experience personality changes. They can become more quiet or even angry and irritable.

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Personality differences -

Many people don't associate anger and irritability with depression, but these mood changes are quite common.

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Disinterest in hobbies -

Depression can take the pleasure or enjoyment out of the things people love.

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Disinterest in hobbies -

A loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities is one of the telltale symptoms of depression.

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Crying for help, then taking it back -

A sign of depression is that one might share what's really going on, only to later feel awkward, guilty, or shameful about opening up. 

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Crying for help, then taking it back -

They may reveal dark thoughts and even call a therapist, only to back out of an appointment at the last minute and say, "Never mind, I'm fine."

Sources: (Medical News Today) (PsychCentral) 

See also: Everyday things you didn’t realize are harming your mental health

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