I wanted to share this resource that provides screening tools for various mental health conditions, including depression: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/
Common symptoms of depression include:
- not enjoying the same hobbies or interests that you once did, or not getting the same amount of pleasure from these activities
- not being able to focus for very long
- losing your appetite regularly
- losing an abnormal amount of weight at one time
- feeling weak or exhausted with no clear cause
- feeling overwhelmingly guilty
- feeling like you’re not worth anything or are inadequate
- feeling anxious or irritable
- losing feelings of hope for the future
- crying without any specific cause
- not being able to sleep well at night
- having dramatic mood swings
- having thoughts about death
It is also worth noting that symptoms of depression can differ between men and women. Some differences are hormonal in nature, including menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. Other differences are connected to societal norms. For example, in the United States, men have historically been expected to present as tough, and may be less likely to share how they are feeling. This tendency can cause both men and women to express their feelings of depression differently based on what they believe is socially acceptable for them to do or say.
Symptoms of depression in men may include:
- showing anger
- blaming the people around them
- picking fights
- turning to destructive habits like drinking
Symptoms of depression in women may include:
- showing sadness
- blaming themselves
- turning to unhealthy habits like emotional eating
However, everyone experiences depression differently, so you may find that your symptoms aren’t easily lumped in any one category.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or notice a change in your own thoughts or behavior, please reach out to someone- this may be someone close to you, myself or another coworker, or your primary care physician.
