How to Spot Signs of Depression: The Blues Versus Clinical Depression

Do you have a child, teenager or other family member who no longer appears to care about anyone or anything, seems tired, even exhausted, or refuses to participate in normal day-to-day activities? 

Depression is an insidious disease, one that can go undetected for a long time. It is difficult to diagnose because many symptoms are hidden or masked.

As a parent or teacher, it is important to be able to spot signs of depression in children or teenagers. Adults are not exempt from depression. For those who have elderly family members, recognizing early symptoms of depression early can make a huge difference in their lives.

What is depression?

The article, “How to Recognize the Symptoms of Depression” distinguished between the blues and clinical depression.

“Depression is a complex condition characterized by profound sadness, lethargy, feelings of worthlessness, and a loss of interest in social activities. These feelings can last for two weeks or go on for decades. The difference between the blues and clinical depression is one of length and severity of symptoms.”

How you spot signs of depression includes the following:

Be alert to early changes in mood and behavior in those around you. If you are aware that there appears to be changes in the mood or behavior of a child or teen, make note of it, even if it is only a mental note. This is important with respect to adults and elderly persons too. Later changes become more apparent and may or may not be indicative of clinical depression.  

Be sensitive to the person who you think may be depressed.     

Your concern, compassion and caring attitude towards a person who you think may be depressed can help to spot or even resolve symptoms that may or may not be indicative of true clinical depression. Depression has many faces.  

“Depression doesn't always look or feel like a dark mood,” this article suggests, adding that "irritability is one of the most under-recognized symptoms of major depression."

Be aware that while there can be legitimate reasons for irritability, your sensitivity can help spot other signs of depression including “muscle and joint pain, headaches, and fatigue”.

Seek professional medical guidance with the person who you think may be depressed, when these symptoms persist for a long time, as he or she may not be able to seek guidance on his or her own without assistance. 

Recognize the reality that "depression drains a person's energy" and gives a feeling of helplessness and hopelessness.    

Remember that everyone can have the blues from time to time, but not everyone has true, clinical depression. The accuracy of your observations can help to ensure that someone who is depressed receives effective counseling or treatment.