Signs of depression

Depression is an extremely common condition affecting around 1 in 6 over 16s in the UK. Whilst most people will have periods of feeling low during their lifetime, depression is diagnosed when this feeling lasts for a long time (weeks or months), when it starts to interfere with daily life, or when over a long period of time it comes and goes regularly. Because of the overuse of the term “depression”, people sometimes don’t see it as a mental health condition, and feel they should just “pull themselves together”. However, depression is a real illness with real symptoms - not something that can just be “snapped out of”. In its mildest form people with depression may feel low, tearful, flat or apathetic much of the time. In its most severe form depression can be extremely dangerous as it can lead to people feeling suicidal.

Depression is commonly seen alongside eating disorders, often occurring in people with anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder. Likewise, BDD and depression can co-occur, particularly when distressing preoccupations with body image or appearance affect self-esteem, mood, and daily functioning.

Some common symptoms of depression are:

• Frequent crying

• Loss of interest in other people

• Lack of energy

• Loss of hope

• A sense of worthlessness or failure

• Poor sleep

• Loss of appetite or weight loss

• Loss of interest in sex

• Loss of pleasure in life or in previously enjoyed activities

• Suicidal thoughts or intentions

Depression is often experienced alongside eating disorders and BDD. If you notice these feelings persisting most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more, it may be time to seek help.