10 Symptoms Of Depression You Need To Know

Depression is a mental condition arising from a state of hopelessness and helplessness. It is more of a mental condition than physical. However, it can manifest in physical symptoms. Any man can suffer depression irrespective of his race or colour, and It is not limited to European men only. Having said this, it is important to consider the causes of depression.

1. Stressful life events

Stressful life events like the death of a loved one (wife, son, daughter or other members of the family) can cause depression.

2. Failed dreams or underachievement.

Failed dreams or underachievement can force a man into a state of depression especially when such a man sees his age mates achieving greatness in their chosen field of endeavours.

3. Repeated Failures 

Consider the example of a medical student who keeps failing his qualifying examination for more than once. When that happens, he starts to see himself as a failure thereby descending into a negative mindset that can make him feel depressed.

4. Heartbreak 

If a man suffers a heartbreak, he could begin to feel depressed, and may be tempted to take irrational decisions.

5. Loneliness 

Loneliness is another cause of depression. When a man is feeling lonely, different kinds of negative thoughts can invade his mind and that will result in a depressing feeling.

The list above is not exhaustive of the causes of depression but they are a good starting point in understanding circumstances that can make a man depressed. The next is to delve into the signs or symptoms of depression.

1. Loss of interest 

When you begin to lose interest in things that normally would give you pleasure, it could be a sign that you are experiencing depression.

2. Unnecessary anger

A depressed man is liable to express his frustration through unprovoked anger. Little things can get him off the handle, and it can be injurious both to him and to those around him.

3. Change in eating habits 

Depending on a man’s body functionality, a depressed man can begin to consume more food than necessary while some others may have a loathing for food. This may result in weight gain or weight loss.

4. Sleeping problems 

A man who is suffering from depression can experience problems when it comes to sleeping. He may begin to experience insomnia or even hypersomnia, and other sleep related problems.

5. Feeling of sadness 

Feelings of sadness are ready companions for depression. It causes a man to experience continuous sadness combined with feelings of hopelessness.

6. Suicidal thoughts 

Having or experiencing suicidal thoughts are harbingers of depression. If a man is battling difficult situation without any solution, depression can set in and if is not tackled properly, such a man may decide to end his life after batting suicidal thoughts.

7. Fatigue or low energy 

If a man’s mental well being is negatively affected, it will result in low energy and or fatigue. He gets tired even without engaging in energy demanding activity.

8. Drug abuse

Drug abuse becomes an escape and coping mechanism for a depressed man. The long term effect of this is that it can damage the man’s organs which will automatically end his life.

9. Headache

As a result of overthinking which is one of the trademarks of depression, a man will develop constant headaches that can graduate to migraine if it is not tackled on time.

10. Sexual Dysfunction 

A man who is experiencing depression may suffer sexual dysfunction. He could lose interest in sex or have an unhealthy desire for sex without minding if it causes harm to the opposite sex.

Solutions 

If you notice that you or someone is experiencing one or more of the points listed above, it is important to take the following steps.

1. Consult your doctor 

If you are having or experiencing depression, it is very important you see a doctor who will properly diagnose your symptoms and also prescribe the necessary medication to mitigate it.

2. Take a break

Take a break from anything causing you to worry especially if it is a toxic relationship or a toxic environment.

3. Avoid self medication 

Indulging in self medication when depressed is tantamount to trying to commit suicide.

4. Join a community 

Join a community of people with similar problems as yours, and who are working towards recovery.

5. Exercise daily 

Engaging in daily exercise can help you whine down any depressing thoughts. 

Conclusion 

Depression is an enemy and it must be thoroughly dealt with in order to enjoy the best that life has to offer.

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