Identifying the Signs and Symptoms of DepressionWhen emotions such as apathy or hopelessness just won't go away, depression may be the cause. More than a temporary bout of blues, depression prevents you from enjoying life on a daily basis. With treatment and psychological and medical help, you can feel better. But first, you need to understand what depression feels like. Learning to identify the signs and symptoms of depression is the first step to solving the problem. What is depression? We all experience the ups and downs of our lives. Sadness is a normal reaction to the events we encounter in life. It's sad for a short time, then the disappointment eventually wears off and life resumes. But when sadness persists, it interferes with your ability to work, study, eat, sleep or play, this is not a normal situation. It's depression! Signs and Symptoms of Depression There is a big difference between feeling depressed and having full-blown depression. Some people describe it as being in a black hole, with no way to escape. We cannot break away from despair or sadness. However, some people with depression don't necessarily feel sad. Instead, they feel like their lives are empty and meaningless. In this state of apathy, they are unable to enjoy anything (even when engaging in activities they previously enjoyed). The signs and symptoms of depression vary between people and can also vary in intensity over time. Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness: Things will never get better and there is nothing you can do to fix the situation. Loss of interest in daily activities: No more interest in your old hobbies and hobbies, you don't like going out and social activities Change in appetite or weight: Significant weight at the bottom... ... middle of paper ......pressure occurring within six months of birth may be considered postpartum. Causes of depression and risk factors There is no single cause of depression. Life experiences, lifestyles, personality traits, all of which can play a role in the onset of depression. Something that creates depression in one individual may have no effect in another. However, we can identify risk factors that can make people more vulnerable. For example, people who live alone and have few friends to turn to in times of stress are likely to be more prone to developing depression. Other factors in depression • Loneliness • Lack of social interaction • Daily stress gets to you • A family history of depression can increase risk • Having marital problems • Facing financial difficulties • Drug or alcohol dependence • Unemployment or precariousness • Chronic health problems