Depression is a mental illness that majorly affects how one feels and acts. It’s symptoms are varied and factors like age, gender, and even existing medical conditions can determine its severity. But in most cases, it is possible to cure one’s depression with the right approach and treatment. And it all starts by identifying the early warning signs to understand just how severe the condition can get in future.

Early warning signs of depression among men
Depression varies greatly depending on one’s age and gender. For example, men might not acknowledge feelings that bother them or affect their psyche but may actively grumble about the discomforts associated with depression. They will complain about fatigue, loss of interest in work, irritability, and also experience difficulties in sleeping. They are unlikely to be vocal about feeling low, guilty, or even hopeless under severe depression. These behavioral changes may also trigger bouts of substance abuse and reckless behavior to vent out their anger.

Early warning signs of depression among women, teens, and old adults
Women tend to be more vocal about how their feelings are affected and the changes that follow, including overeating, experiencing loss of sleep, and weight gain. Hormonal changes can also trigger mood swings, especially when one is also experiencing postpartum depression. Older adults will complain about physical changes that result in discomforts while performing the simplest of activities forming part of their daily routine. And, teenagers may experience a myriad of emotions ranging from mood instabilities to physical discomforts.

Some of the most common signs of developing depression are as follows:

• Insomnia
  There is a difference between lack of sleep and getting no sleep at all. Depression and insomnia are closely linked as lack of sleep can result in mood disturbances that trigger depression. If the condition persists, one may experience total loss of sleep more frequently enough for it to take a toll on one’s overall health. Sleep disturbances can result in complications that affect one’s physical health in the long run.
• Changes in one’s outlook
  Behavioral changes can also affect one’s outlook towards life. People who are depressed may experience a sense of hopelessness, worthlessness, or may victimize oneself with self-hate and feelings of guilt. These feelings will have a negative impact and will soon start impacting major life decisions. Instead of processing the emotional responses calmly and addressing problems with a level head, one might end up taking rash decisions or unplanned actions. Addressing these feelings promptly and early is of utmost importance in treating the symptoms.
• Lifestyle choices and physical changes
  Loss of appetite, followed by a drastic reduction in one’s weight can also indicate a developing problem. Lack of interest in eating, pursuing hobbies, being social or even doing day to day tasks are serious indicators and if these changes persist, the problems must be addressed promptly. These involuntary changes in eating habits and food preferences are among the clear early warning signs for depression to look out for. Furthermore, increased fatigue and prolonged lethargy for no reason are also among the overwhelmingly common symptoms of depression.