7 Symptoms of Depression That You Should Never Ignore

Written By Elizabeth Hanes, RN

Updated on August 19, 2020

Nearly 16 million adults in America experienced at least one episode of depression over the past year, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Depression can be caused by a medical condition like cancer, certain medications, sensitivity to seasonal light levels, giving birth, or having a family history of mood disorders.

Depression might make you feel sad or hopeless, and in its more serious forms can provoke suicidal thoughts. If you have been diagnosed with depression, you should stay alert to changes in your condition and watch for these depression complications that should never be ignored.

7 Signs of Depression That You Should Never Ignore

  • Suicidal thoughts or thinking about hurting someone else
  • Feeling hopeless
  • Sadness that won’t go away
  • Self-medication with drugs or alcohol
  • Insomnia
  • Sudden onset of aches and pains
  • Increased agitation

If you find yourself believing that your family would be better off without you, or that you wish you could harm someone you feel has wronged you, please seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or a crisis hotline. Even serious depression can be treated by adjusting your medications or talking through your emotions with a professional. These symptoms may indicate your medications require adjustment or that you might benefit from more intensive talk therapy.

Help is available Speak with someone today

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7

Available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish.

1- 800-273-8255