62 Signs And Symptoms Of Depression And Anxiety In Men & Women

Feeling Hopeless

Depression and anxiety come in diverse forms and affect many people differently. Depression is a state when someone feels depressed, hopeless and apathetic in everyday life. People with depression do not want to participate in daily activities. Depression is a problem that can be only happened once or can continue. Many people have problems in weekly or monthly. If left untreated, depression can recur and worsen. People with anxiety disorders often feel scared and insecure about everything around. These emotions are very difficult to control and make them more frightened. In people with anxiety disorder, depression is a mental illness that is most often combined, and occurred nearly 2/3 of cases.

I’m an author from the site VKool.com, and I made this article to show you 62 most common signs and symptoms of depression and anxietyin both men & women. With this report, you will be able to tell if you or someone you know is depressed or has anxiety disorders easily. Besides, if you want to know about other information relating to depression and anxiety, you can check out at here:

  1. How To Control Anxiety Attacks Naturally Without Medicine
  2. List Of Good And Bad Foods For Depression And Anxiety
  3. Discover Natural Herbs For Depression And Anxiety

Discover 62 Tips To Know Whether You Are Depressed Or Anxious

I. Classification Of Depression Symptoms

Depression has three main categories, and in every kind of depression, symptoms, levels, and the nature of symptoms may vary.

1. Major Depression

Major Depression

Major depression makes mind and body almost paralyzed. People with depression lose the ability to work and learn. The patients cannot eat, sleep, and take all the fun activities that bring joy to them. The patient can only have major depression once in their lives, but also major depression may recur several times.

2. Mild Depression (Dysthymia)

Mild depression

Chronic symptoms, although not causing the patients paralyzed mentally and physically, patients do not have fun and show much of anything.

3. Bipolar Disorder, Also Known As Manic-Depressive Disorder

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder

People suffering from bipolar disorder, as the name implies, sometimes, they are “high” (manic) means excessive fun; and sometimes they are “low” (depression) means that sadly crippled body. Sometimes, the state of patients moves from eager, excessive fun to a state of sadness quickly in a few hours, but often switch from “fun” over the “sad” for several days. When in a state of “sad”, patients are moody and have symptoms of depression. When in a state of “fun”, patients are full of vigor, have quick statements that cannot fit together, do things simultaneously although no work is completed. The thought, working methods, unusual behaviors are outside the control of the patient and often cause difficulties in employment and shame while communicating in society. The state “happy” if not treated will become paranoid state (Psychotic).

Learn more: End Your Depression book – a guidebook that covers the secrets of eliminating negative feelings.

Keep reading this article to get more details about signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders.

II. Signs And Symptoms Of Depression In Men

Signs and symptoms of depression in men

Although the number of men with depression is lower when compared to women, there are about 6 million men suffering depression in the United States. Typically, men rarely recognize their depression; in addition, doctors often do not notice and seek depression in male patients. Depression in men often is concealed by alcohol, marijuana or drugs, or by working excessive long hours that are easily accepted by society. Depression is found in men over the symptoms such as anger, upset, and frustrated. Men rarely accept or acknowledge that they have the despair, or sadness, so looking out for depression in men is not easy. Even if the patient understands that he suffered from depression, he rarely finds a doctor to heal. The encouragement, sympathy and help from family are essentials that help men with depression get an appropriate treatment. Therefore, knowing signs and symptoms of depression is very important for helping men get rid of their depression before it is too late. Here are the top signs and symptoms of depression in men that you should know.

1. Depressed Mood

Signs And Symptoms Of Depression - Depressed Mood

L Martin – Ph.D., assistant professor at the University of Michigan uncovers that the leading expression of men with depression is similar to women; there is a depressed mood. This seems to contradict with men’s strong will; therefore, when they are most depressed, they rarely cry or lie in bed like women. Instead, men tend to be excitable, or switch to using alcohol or drugs. The symptoms of depression in men will not easily disappear after a night. Martin also says that you should know that men are less likely to seek the help to relieve psychological suppression as women.

Learn more: Depression Help Fast program – a new solution that will take you step by step through the process of learning how to overcome depression fast.

2. A Big Change In His Mood And His Behavior

A Big Change In His Mood And His Behavior

One of the other signs and symptoms of depression in men is the change in behavior. You should consider the changes in his behavior (for example, suddenly like gambling, spending more time in pubs, bars, or do himself works that he did with the others …). Another sign is the compulsive behavior himself deliberately as plunging into work or exercising excessively. “If your mind or your body is forced to work non-stop, you will not have to deal with what’s going on inside,” Martin said. In addition, to spot a man with depression, you can pay attention to the big change in his mood as self cower, or angry, or too pessimistic about the others, especially if the regular expression is unusual and appears to high frequency.

3. Discomfort And Frustration

Discomfort And Frustration

Men who are suffering from depression always show signs of discomfort (one of signs and symptoms of depression). In addition, they have negative thoughts, a common aspect of depression. Specialists say that men will usually be irritated by negative thinking that affects them. In addition, depressed men can get frustrated at a few simple things in their everyday life. It could be as small as feeling nothing interesting on the television. Depressed men may also become frustrated easily with themselves or with other loved ones.

Learn more: 27 Natural Tips To Relieve Stress, Anxiety And Depression Quickly – this article is for those people who are seeking tips to boosting your mood and energy dramatically.

4. Focusing On Small Matters And Inability To Have Fun

Focusing On Small Matters And Inability To Have Fun

According to one study, focusing on small matters and inability to have fun are signs and symptoms of depression in men. Men who are suffering from depression tend to focus on small things that are inconsequential. These small issues can disturb them greatly. Therefore, maybe they do not be able to see the big picture. A man, who is depressed, seems to be unable to experience enjoyment or fun anymore. They can have a good time; however, after the activity is ended, they will be back in a poor frame of mind.

5. Overeating

Overeating

One of signs and symptoms of depression is overeating. Men with depression may overeat. Some men can mistakenly console themselves with the junk food diet such as fast food and ice cream. Scientists explain that eating releases pleasure chemicals in men’s brain and it can give the temporary yet false belief of finding better. This feeling does not often last very long.

Learn more: Recover From Eating Disorders – a new course that helps you get a healthy diet plan for treating eating disorders.

6. Increased Agitation And Restlessness

Increased Agitation And Restlessness

Depressed men may find restless, as if they want to do a few things, but do not know what it is. This symptom of depression can show itself with twitches and foot tapping. Depressed men can have a short attention span and they move from this activity to other activities without enjoying fully any of them. Some men with depression fall into the “hyper” end of a spectrum of behaviors where other people are the opposite. To tell if a man you know is suffering from depression, you can look for:

  • The man you know can be more irritable than usual, unable to relax, seldom calm, quicker to anger, and full of restless energy. You also should look for frequent standing up and sitting back down, pacing, and lashing out at other people.
  • For a man with depression, everything becomes magnified. So small slights or irritations are not just pebbles in the psyche, they are giant boulders, which get in the way of usual life.

You will discover other signs and symptoms of depression in men in the next part of this article.

7. Slowed Thinking And Slowed Movements

Slowed Thinking And Slowed Movements

Slowed thinking and slowed movements are considered obvious signs and symptoms of depression in men. Some men who are suffering from depression can have a slowed thinking or delayed thinking process, for example, they quickly forget what they were saying and doing. For a youth man, this may be difficult in the school setting. Depressed men can also experience slowed movement. They cannot walk as quick as they used to. If in the past, they used to be active, they cannot exercise any longer.

Learn more: 16 Positive Thinking Tips To Overcome Negativity And Become More Optimistic

8. Getting Stomach Pain And Back Pain

Getting stomach pain and back pain

Men who suffer from depression, also often have stomach pain and back pain. The cause of the pain is caused by chronic stress. In this case, it is necessary to adjust the diet to get a healthy diet, and combine with exercises that help keep calm and tame the pain caused by psychological rather than pathological.

(Recommended reading: Conquer Stress Forever book – a guidebook that consists of the proven methods for dealing with stress.)

According to a survey by the American Psychiatric Institutes of Health, men rarely recognize the relationship between depression with symptoms of digestive disorders (constipation, diarrhea) and chronic pain (headaches, back pain). In a study by the University of Oxford, the researchers used a brain imaging method to test the reaction of the participants with pain while in a state of low morale. The results showed that, when people feel depressed, the operation of emotion sectional area in neural circuits is hampered, thereby this increases the pain than normal level.

Learn more:  X-Pain Method – a new back pain treatment program that helps you relieve your back pain quickly.

9. Loss Of Appetite Or Appetite Changes

Loss of appetite or appetite changes

Enjoying cuisine is one of the leading hobbies of men. Once they lost appetite, certainly something is happening and makes them worry. Reducing or increasing suddenly weight loss is always a sign cannot be ignored. Maybe depression is beginning to “attack” men.

Appetite and weight can fluctuate differently for each individual who is suffering from major depression. Some depressed men will gain weight and they have an increased appetite while other men with depression will not be hungry and lose weight. A distinguishing factor to recognize whether changes in the diet are linked to depression is if these changes are intentional or not. Changes in men’s eating habits as a result of depression may lead to eating too little or too much. A weight gain or weight loss more than 5 % of men’s body weight in a month is one of the warning signs and symptoms of depression. Some depressed men experience a loss of interest in foods, while for other depressed men; food is a way of compensating for their feelings of depression.

10. Irritability With The Normal Reasons

Irritability with the normal reasons

Irritability with the normal reasons or problems that can be solved easily, it means that men are suffering from undue stress. Uncontrolled and prolonged emotion increases the risk of getting depression. In this situation, yoga is the best solution for men who want to control their depression.

(Learn more: Shapeshifter Yoga Course – a new yoga course for beginners that will help you control depression quickly.)

According to health care center, Mayo Clinic, men usually do not accept that they are suffering from depression and they always seek reasons to evade treatment. Therefore, they concentrate their anger upon relatives, friends and even strangers. Men with depression have vulgar words offending their wife, arguing with their friends or fight in a bar. Some of them drink alcohol when driving, have an unsafe sex with strange women or even suicide.

11. Fall Into Anxiety And Panic

Fall Into Anxiety And Panic

Not only women who face with anxiety and panic, men can also fall into this state when stress and insecurity reach extreme level. Many subjective people claim that anxiety and panic will pass quickly, but in fact, if they are not controlled, they will break out into a dangerous depression. Concealing depressed mood with alcohol, men can suffer from alcoholism any time. The important thing is that drinking alcohol does not help solve complex psychological problems, whereas increasing loss of self-control.

(Recommended reading: Instant Panic Relief book)

Scientists have shown a strong link between depression and anxiety disorders. It is not often easier for men to talk to someone about their anxious feeling. Depressed men can discuss concerns about work and worry about if the loss of a job can obstruct their ability to provide for their family and themselves. Dr. Cook says, “It may be easier to put words to worries and fears”. To reduce anxiety and panic attacks, you could do this by practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, and rhythmic exercise.

Learn more: 18 Benefits Of Meditation & Mindfulness Study On The Body 2024 – this article is for people who are seeking peace of mind, calmness, joy, vibrant health, greater energy, and positive relationships.

12. Loss Of Sexual Desire

Signs And Symptoms Of Depression - Loss Of Sexual Desire

What makes men lose sexual desire rather than depression that is raging in your body and mind. Many men no longer feel interested; they evade or abandon their passion for a single cause, called depression. The world suddenly collapses in front of their eyes, their positive thinking disappears, it means that the pessimism is flooding in the soul of a man. The fact that men will fall tears a lot if they have chronic depression.

Depression is one of the key factors that reduce libido and cause erectile dysfunction in men. According to scientists, sexual desire comes from the brain and is triggered by nerve metabolites that play a role in signaling between cells in the brain and stimulating blood circulation to genitals. However, when men have depression, these substances will fall into imbalance.

Learn more: Exersutra Sexercises – a new course for men that is designed to help the guys become more proficient in sexual activities

13. Sleeping Too Much Or Too Little

 

Sleeping Too Much Or Too Little

Sleep problems such as insomnia, waking up very early in the morning or sleeping too much are common symptoms of depression. Some people sleep 12 hours a day and still feel exhausted or just waking up every two hours. Like fatigue, sleep problems are one of the main symptoms that men with depression may face.

Learn more: Top 18 Best And Worst Foods For Sleep – this article will help you pick the right foods to consume and easy and tasty dessert recipes to create in order to help you get better sleep.

14. Be Difficult In Focusing

Signs And Symptoms Of Depression - Be Difficult In Focusing

When suffering from depression, a man’s information processing ability is weakened. Therefore, the ability to focus on tasks is impaired. Negative thoughts gradually fill his mind, and make him difficult to focus on anything. Some of men with depression can be easily distracted. No activity holds their concentration. These men may spend a few hours on surfing the internet or watching television when they should be focused on other tasks or working. Psychomotor retardation can slow down their ability to process information, and impair concentration on work or other tasks.

Klapow says, “Depression fills a man with negative thoughts, almost like an intrusion. You’re slowed down and constantly thinking about negative things in your world. As a result it makes it very difficult to focus on anything.”

Dr. Sussman says, “I describe depression as a form of reversible brain failure. When you’re depressed, it’s like your CPU (central processing unit) isn’t working properly.”

Learn more: Top 19 Natural Tips To Improve Concentration

15. Cannot Make Decisions

Cannot Make Decisions

Klapow says that it is an information-processing issue, and depression slows down men’s ability to decide. Men with depression also have trouble in making a decision. They almost lose the ability as ordinary people to make a decision or choose something new. Depression makes the problem of processing information of brain have trouble, and it will slow down sufferers’ ability of making decision.

Dr. Cook says that he cannot count the number of people who have said, “I had money in the bank but the phone got shut off because I couldn’t bring myself to pay the bill or decide what to do and when.”  Some men naturally have a hard time making decisions, so the inability to make decisions is usually worrisome only if it is a new behavior.

Learn more: Chakra Tapping – a new book for those people who want to learn how to make better decisions

16. Feel Fatigued

Feel Fatigued

People who are suffering from depression pass a series of emotional and physical changes. They can experience psychomotor retardation, fatigue, or a slowing down of speech, physical movements, as well as thought processes. According to J Klapow, PhD, a clinical psychologist at BSPH, the number of men, who report fatigue and depression related physical symptoms when their chief complaints, are more likely than women.

Recommended reading: End Tiredness Program – a new program that teaches you how to get rid of fatigue and live a vigorous life.

17. Anger Or Hostility

Anger Or Hostility

Dr. Sussman says that some of men manifest their depression by being aggressive, hostile, or angry. He also says a man who understands something is wrong can need to be compensated by demonstrating this man is still strong and capable. Hostility and anger are more different than irritability. While anger tends to being a stronger emotion, irritability is crankiness. In addition, Dr. Sussman also reveals that he is seen a man become hostile when he has withdrawn as a result of his depression and feels stressed by family or friends to rejoin society.

Recommended reading: 8 Anger Management Techniques That Will Help You Control Your Emotions And Life More Effectively.

18. Stress

Stress

According a research, men may be more likely to report symptoms of depression as stress. It is not that men have more stress; it is that it is more socially acceptable to report it. In addition, according to Dr. Cook, depression and stress can travel a two-way street. “It’s accurate to say that feeling stressed can be an indicator of having clinical depression but also be part of the cause,” says Dr. Cook. Research has also shown that prolonged exposure to stress will result in changes in both the brain and body that can in turn lead to depression.

Recommended reading: Primal Stress – a guidebook for anyone who is seeking effective stress relief techniques.

19. Substance Abuse

Substance Abuse

Substance abuse often accompanies with depression. Researchers have shown that the number of alcoholics have a higher risk of getting major depression than people without a drinking problem. It can occur for both women and men; however, using alcohol or drugs to mask their uncomfortable feelings is a strategy that many men will apply instead of seeking health care. Dr. Cook says, “There’s a cultural bias of, I should be able to fix this myself and so I’ll use what chemicals I have available to me to do that.”

Learn more: How to Give Up Alcohol – a new book for people who want to get rid of drinking alcohol without medications.

20. Suicidal Thoughts Or Looking At Death

Suicidal Thoughts Or Looking At Death

If a man has thoughts of harming himself, it will be a serious symptom of depression and instantly needs to be taken seriously. If men with depression are thinking about suicide, they need to get the help right away.

Women are more likely to think suicide, but according to studies, men are more than 4 times as likely to die when they do attempt suicide. Scientists explain that men tend to apply more lethal methods than women do. Dr. Cook says, “They more often use firearms and kill themselves the first time they try.” In addition, Dr. Cook indicates that older men take the highest risk for suicide, and a few doctors can miss depression symptoms in this group of people. In fact, over 70 percent of older suicide victims told to their primary care physicians within the month of their death.

With depression, the scariest reality is its connection with suicide. Men with depression have sunken feelings and uncontrollable emotions that often lead them to a permanent solution for their temporary problem. According to a recent survey, there are 90 % of the over 34,000 people who commit suicide in the United State. Suicides rarely come with not expressing symptoms first. Often men will talk about their suicidal intention or have a first attempt before they put an end to their life.

Learn more: Top 21 Easy Ways To Improve Mental Health & Wellbeing

21. Loss Of Energy And Loss Of Interest

Loss Of Energy And Loss Of Interest

Depression is one of causes that may take the enjoyment or pleasure out of things men love. The loss of interest or withdrawal from daily activities that men once looked forward to such as hobbies, sports, social interactions, or going out with their friends – is one of warning signs and symptoms of major depression. Another symptom of major depression can be a decreased sex drive or even impotence. In addition, if you lose of energy, it means you may feel tired all the time. With the loss of energy last a few weeks, you can have major depression, one of 3 types of depression.

Recommended reading: Top 16 Foods To Boost Energy Level, Mood And Fight Fatigue

22. Changed Feelings And Uncontrollable Emotions

In general, major depression is a mood disorder, which affects the way you feel about your life. When you have a helpless or hopeless outlook on your life, it is the most common symptom associated with major depression. Major depression makes you change your feelings, and makes you not be able to control your emotions. Other feelings you can have when suffering major depression are self-hate, worthlessness, or inappropriate guilt.

Within a few minute, you have an outburst of anger. The next you cry uncontrollably. Nothing outside of you prompt the change, but your emotion is up and down within minutes. Major depression may swing your moods around, keeps you away from the calm you want.

Learn more: Easy Calm – a new program that helps you control your emotions easily

23. Sadness And Guilt

Sadness And Guilt

Men with depression will feel sad, hopeless and empty. If you know someone who has these signs, you can believe that he is suffering from depression. These people feel that no matter how hard they try, they just cannot control their negative thoughts, and they feel themselves crying for no obvious reason. In addition, men with severe depression can feel that they are helpless and worthless. They can even be overly self-critical, and experience their depression as a sign of weakness.

24. Problems In Relationships And Non Communicative Behavior

Problems In Relationships And Non Communicative Behavior

When men feel badly about themselves, it is very difficult for them to keep their relationships stable, find sexually connected to their partner, and communicate their internal state. When men suffer from depression, they lose their confidence, their energy and their effort. They become less communicative and withdrawn and make their partners resentful and angry. In fact, this can result in divorce as well as other serious problems in their marriage. Although men who are depressed, experience a loss in sex drive, they can also begin engaging in a reckless sexual behavior or having a sex outside of their relationship for the reason that they want to seek some kinds of excitement or stimulation.

Learn more: Relationship Collection package – a relationship ebook collection that consists of 16 relationship ebooks covering secrets and advice from the most blissful couples in the world.

25. A Greater Sense Of Isolation And Self Blame

A Greater Sense Of Isolation And Self Blame

In general, men often blame themselves on bad feelings. This state creates anxiety and can lead to a mental behavior that is called rumination. Rumination is similar to worry except worry is linked with potential bad events in the future, whereas rumination focuses on negative feelings and experiences from the past. Rumination can interrupt your sleep and cause you a tremendous amount of anxiety. For men with depression, their thought pattern looks like this:

“Suffering from depression and feeling badly is a horrible intolerable thing. I must be defective and bad in some ways to have these issues. So, what did I do to lead to this state? What am I punished for? And why am I so inadequate?”

If you have a problem with rumination, it means that you are not actually solving a problem that you have to face with. If you are not depressed you will not blame yourself, and you will not think you can be punished. Engaging in this kind of thinking pattern is unproductive and destructive. This worsens the depression and it can form an additional state of anxiety.

26. Feelings Of Dissatisfaction

Feelings Of Dissatisfaction

When men suffer from depression, they will become uncomfortable mentally and physically. Rather than being an introspective man, most men are avoidant. They can often minimize their feelings. In some cases, this feeling can be strength. If they are slightly anxious and depressed, for instance, they are not more likely than women to focus on this. They are able to successfully move past it, and allow things to roll off their backs, because they do not give it too much attention. If they are more serious depressed, avoiding and ignoring their feelings often lead to greater troubles.

Men have difficulty in tolerating their uncomfortable emotional states resulted from their depression and they can often seek relief by trying to stimulate themselves into the happiness or getting into trouble. They can act out sexually, begin to gamble or drink, or begin developing other addictions. Because men are less likely to understand and have the ability to communicate their feelings, they are more likely resistant to their uncomfortable feeling states. They have their own method to cope with depression including more escape and avoidance behaviors. One of the telltale signs and symptoms of depression in men is an increase in these behaviors.

If you want to know signs and symptoms of depression in women, continue reading the article.

III. Signs And Symptoms Of Depression In Women

The number of women with depression is often higher when compared to men. The turmoil of female hormones are considered as factors leading to depression, especially when menopause, pregnancy, miscarriage, after birth (postpartum). Depression related to hormonal disturbance can be healed when hormones return to normal by medication or over time.

1. Loss Of Interest

Loss Of Interest

 

Those who prefer the amateur activities, once they have a depression, their friends and family can realize easily. When they have to work under pressure, they no longer feel interested in life enjoyment, and they no longer feel joy, it means that their interest is lost completely. This is a manifestation or one of signs and symptoms of depression. In some cases, women who are depressed can lose interest in their normal and daily activities. This can be as serious as not want to take any medication, and as simple as not want to go to work.

2. Feeling Hopeless

Feeling Hopeless

 

Women with depression always feel things are worse; their prospect becomes gloomy, all things they want become hopeless. In contrast to this, a person without depression will always have many hopes, such as academic progress, career achievement, healthy family and so on. At the same time, they also have many small wishes as saving money to shopping brands, enjoying music concerts, travelling to distant lands … In short, losing hope for the future is a manifestation of depression.

3. Feeling Lonely

Feeling Lonely

This feeling is really miserable, especially they are difficult to express this feeling to other people; therefore, many women do not want to go to the doctor because they identify that the doctor cannot help them. They always feel that they are not similar to the others, and they feel they are falling into a deep abyss, and all things become irreversible, no one is able to help them. Such women have a long day as a year, they are always lonely, lonely, and keep away from others. This is an outstanding manifestation of depression.

Learn more: Top 15 Incredibly Simple Tips On How To Overcome Fear Failure

4. Underestimate Yourself

Underestimate Yourself

Women with depression will always underestimate themselves. They think that they are not talented and they cannot complete well any task including small and simple tasks. These people always claim that they are useless. Some of people who are suffering depression feel guilty all the time without reason. This is also an expression of depression. When having this sign, you need to follow exercises that can help you improve your self-esteem.

Learn more: 19 Essential Self Esteem Building Exercises

5. Loss Of Energy

Loss Of Energy

Women with depression can suffer a loss of energy. This could be a physical symptom when they stop doing daily activities. It could also be a mental and emotional problem, when they keep away from loved ones. Loss of energy is one of signs and symptoms of depression that other people can realize easily. In addition, lack of motivation and diminished energy level boil down to lethargy and it is showed especially when a girl is normally lively and vibrant. In its extreme, this sign can be debilitating.

Recommended reading: Top 26 Proven Ways To Boost Energy And Metabolism Fast

6. Feelings Of Worthlessness And Feelings Of Guilt

Feelings Of Worthlessness And Feelings Of Guilt

Depressed women always feel worthless and they will think no one loves them. They feel as they contribute nothing to society and people around them hate them. This feeling can lead to more destructive thoughts such as suicide.

Women who are depressed may feel guilty for having a mental disorder. They feel that their sadness places a burden on others. They may think that if only they were stronger, no one would have to suffer because of them.

7. Fixating On Past Failures And Mistakes

Fixating On Past Failures And Mistakes

Fixating on past failures and mistakes is also considered as one of warning signs and symptoms of depression in women. Some women, who are depressed, fixate on past failures and mistakes. For example, they are insignificant and as simple as burning dinner. However, these simple mistakes will be overwhelming for people who have depression. In addition, some of women with depression have trouble in remembering important information. For instance, they can forget holidays, big dates, or smaller things. They can also forget to eat as well as practice personal hygiene.

8. Trouble Thinking, Trouble Concentrating And Thoughts Of Death

Trouble Thinking, Trouble Concentrating And Thoughts Of Death

Women with depression can have trouble in thinking clearly. Their thinking is clouded and confusing. Their depression will disappear if they have the way of normal thought processes. In addition, women who suffer from depression can have difficulty in concentrating on everyday tasks. For example, cooking or doing the laundry can be too overwhelming for them.

Some women, who are more serious depressed, not only think of their own death, but also the death of other people. They can threaten other people, or even mention destructive activities. If you think a woman is in danger of harming herself or other people, you can consider calling the police instantly.

9. Crying For No Reason Or Excessive Crying

Crying For No Reason Or Excessive Crying

Depressed women may feel themselves crying for no reason. For example, they can see a sad commercial on television and then they start crying. They can also start crying during conversations with other people. Even, they can also start excessively crying from no direct causes, but their own inner sadness.

Crying often happens for no explicable reason and this state may go on for a few hours, or even a few days in some extreme cases. For some women, their emotional display of crying is fairly normal. For other women, crying is far more controlled, and it is usually reserved for serious matters including grief, loss, or genuine sadness. However, if you see a woman who is crying more than normal for no justifiable or apparent reason, or who is exhibiting longer periods of crying, you may affirm that she is actually depressed.

10. Having Insomnia Accompanied With Physical Pains

Having Insomnia Accompanied With Physical Pains

Some women with depression spend their nights on worrying and experience insomnia. These women can resort to take sleeping pills or drink alcohol to try to get rest. Trouble sleeping is one of signs and symptoms of depression. Depressed women can have difficulty in falling asleep or even they can wake up in the middle of night and cannot get back to sleep. M. Haight, an insomnia researcher says “Everyone has stress and can’t sleep now and then,” “But if your problems sleeping go on for more than a few weeks, you need to start thinking about whether it’s an emotional difficulty that needs to be addressed.” About 1/3 depressed women can sleep much more than normal. In addition, women with depression can also experience some types of physical pain that are caused by their emotional pain. These women can get sick more often, and they can feel a general malaise. Furthermore, they may also experience migraines and headaches, or have constant muscle pain and stiffness. According to psychologist, insomnia is one of obvious signs and symptoms of depression. Insomnia can be caused by many other factors, but depression is not a small factor in aggravating insomnia.

11. Feelings Of Sadness, Irritability And Unable To Have Fun

Feelings Of Sadness

Women who are suffering from depression most often described as “sad”. Researchers indicate that these women feel overwhelming sadness and they are inability to be happy. This feeling can go through every part of their daily activities. Some of women with depression seem to be unable to get fun or even enjoyment anymore. Maybe they will have a good time, however after the activity is ended, they will be back in a poor frame of mind. In addition, some depressed women experience anger as well as irritability. These women can be unhappy about their lives and activities in it. They can also find faults in some things and in people who used to make them happy.  If someone you know has the feelings of sadness and irritability, you can tell this person has warning signs and symptoms of depression.

12. Getting Headaches

Getting Headaches

One of signs and symptoms of depression in women is headache or migraine headache. If a woman already had headaches or migraine headaches, she may become worse if she was depressed. Researchers indicate that the link between depression and migraine headache that affects over 10 % of American women is especially close. In recent studies, researchers also found that over a 2-year period, a woman with a history of major depression was 3 times more likely than an average to have a first headache attack, and a woman with a history of migraine was 5 times more likely than an average to have a first depression episode. You know that headache can caused by many causes, but headache that is related to depression is usually generalized and dull. In addition, women who suffering from depression often report that their headaches become worse in the evening and in the morning. They are likely tension headaches that happen when the muscles in the neck and scalp contract or become tense. M. Haight says, “When people are depressed, they may be tensing this muscle group — not realizing it and creating a lot of head pain.”

Learn more: 19 Natural Home Remedies For A Headache Pain And Fever

13. Suffering From Back Pain, Neck Pain, Muscle Aches And Joint Pain

Neck Pain

For women who already suffered from back pain, it can get worse if they are depressed. Although back pain is not one of the primary signs and symptoms of depression, it will make depressed people become more serious. According a study from the University of Alberta, a researcher followed a random sample of about 800 women without low back pain and neck pain and this person found that women who suffer from depression are 4 times more likely to develop disabling or intense low back and neck pain than those who do not suffer from depression.

Muscle or joint pain can also be another physical sign or symptom of depression. M. Haight  says, “There is a relationship between how well people take care of themselves and depression.” “People with depression tend to exercise less and are less likely to focus on healthy eating. When you don’t treat your body in the most healthful ways, you may have more physical pain, possibly in your back and muscles or joints.” In addition, if you are already living with any kinds of chronic pains, depression can make your problems worse. According to a research that was published in the JGIM (Journal of General Internal Medicine), physical symptoms like arthritis can improve if depression is healed with medications.

Learn more: 21 Home Remedies For Sore Muscles In Neck, Shoulders, Back & Legs

14. Having Chest Pain

Having Chest Pain

It is very important to get your chest pain checked out by an expert immediately. Because, if you have chest pain, it means you are living with one of signs and symptoms of depression. Researchers indicate that it can be a sign of serious heart problems; however, chest pain is also linked to depression (chest pain is considered as one of signs and symptoms of depression). A study from the University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sweden, indicates that several common factors among women, who are affected by chest pain do not linked to biomedical factors including heart disease or depression that is one of the significant common factors.

If a woman experiences chest pain, do not delay seeking medical treatments. Although, chest pain may be a symptom or sign of a heart attack, or other serious heart conditions, chest pain may be associated with the emotional health. M. Haight says, “Chest pain is often associated with panic attacks that are an anxiety issue”. “When people are having a panic attack, they can have heart palpitations and have difficulty breathing, just like they were having a heart attack.” In case your doctor diagnoses that your chest pain is not an indicative sign of a heart attack or other heart conditions, you should ask whether it could be a sign or symptom of depression or anxiety.

15.  Having Digestive Problems

Having Digestive Problems

Chronic constipation, nausea, queasiness, and diarrhea can all result from depression. These conditions are signs and symptoms of depression in women. Some studies indicate that up to 60 % of women with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) have a psychological disorder; mainly it is depression or anxiety. According to a study that is published in General Hospital Psychiatry, women who reported symptoms of their nausea were more than 3 times as likely to also suffer from an anxiety disorder, and nearly 3 times more likely to suffer from depression. Researchers indicate that depression is a possible factor for some digestive disorders, and it should be investigated before your aggressive treatments are begun.

In addition, stomach problems are common in people with depression, especially in women, children and adolescents. A lot of children have tummy problems and when you look into them, you feel they are often related to their peer relationships or school anxiety. Women with depression can also have digestive issues such as Crohn’s disease, ulcers, and colitis.

Recommended reading: 26 Best And Worst Foods For Digestion Problems

16. Being Exhausted And Fatigued

Being Exhausted And Fatigued

Other signs and symptoms of depression are exhaustion and fatigue. Researchers indicate that fatigue and depression feed off each other in a vicious cycle, which makes it difficult to know where the one starts, and where the other stops. One study shows that women, who are suffering from depression, also develop unexplained fatigue, and women who are suffering from fatigue, also develop depression. M. Haight says that fatigue and exhaustion or lack of energy are considered as classic hallmarks of depression. When women treat their depression, M. Haight says, “it’s amazing how much more alive they feel and how much more energy they have.”

Learn more: Top 10 Natural Remedies For Fatigue – this article will help you conquer fatigue and boost energy fast.

17. Sleep Disturbances And Lack Of Sexual Desire

Sleep Disturbances And Lack Of Sexual Desire

Lack of sexual desire also is considered as one of signs and symptoms of depression in women who are not interested in having sex with their partner. Depressed women can experience physical symptoms that express in an inability to get pleasure from sex. In addition, women with depression may not get pleasure in the same way they used to.

Some other factors may also cause a weak libido such as sleep disturbances. Women who suffer from depression often have difficulty in falling asleep. For example, they can awaken in the early hours of the morning and then feel themselves inability to get back to their sleep. According a research, there are about 15 % of women, who suffer from depression, sleep too much. Researchers show that sleep disturbance alone does not cause depression, but it can contribute. In addition, sleep disturbance that is caused by other illness or anxiety may make depression worse.

Learn more: Vitamins For Women Over 50 – this article is for women who are seeking tips and methods to improve their sexuality, boost libido, and have the hormonal balance in their body.

18. Change In Appetite And Weight

Change In Appetite And Weight

There are a lot of studies that indicate that excess weight in women can be linked to depression symptoms, the history of depression, and some other measures of a psychological distress. In earlier studies, researchers also suggest a strong link between changing weight and depression. According to a study in 2006 that was published in the AGP (Archives of General Psychiatry), the depression-obesity association was found to be the same in both women and men. In addition, women with depression not only have changes in weight, but they also experience a reduction or increase in appetite. Therefore, changing in appetite and weight is one of warning signs and symptoms of depression.

Have you lost interest in food and you are losing weight? Are you eating too much leading to gain weight? Any change in your appetite can be one of warning signs and symptoms of depression. M. Haight says, “People often use food to deal with emotional stress and feelings of sadness.” You need to pay attention to your change in appetite. If it lasts for over a few weeks, you need to talk to your doctor to find out whether it is related to depression or other medical problems or even both.

A research shows that fluctuations in women’s weight can be linked to changes in their eating habits as well as activity level. D. Kim, a nutritionist says, “Sometimes people with depression sleep a lot — as much as 12 hours a day — and so they’re not as active. Because they’re not as active, they may gain weight.” On the other hand, if their appetite is lost and they are not eating enough, you may also experience weight loss. When a woman has unexplained weight gain or loss, she needs to talk to her doctor because it could be one of signs and symptoms of depression.

19. Loss Of Self-Esteem, And Be Demonstrated As Self-Criticism

Loss Of Self-Esteem

Women, who have self-deprecating remarks, can frustrate and confound their male counterparts. For example, a woman can claim to find ugly or fat when her boyfriend or husband sees her as lovely and with a well figure. In this situation, what men do not understand is that these viewpoints of self-criticism by their partner are couched in depression, and are not mirrored in reality. The negative self-image can serve to exacerbate or develop the depression. It is a vicious circle. Not only the negative self-image is associated with the physical appearance, it is also manifested in women, who feel that they are incapable mothers, inadequate wives, or imperfect friends. With women who feel that they lost their self-esteem, and they are demonstrated as self-criticism, they can make sure that these are signs and symptoms of depression.

Recommended reading: The Ultimate Self Esteem Formula – a guidebook that consists of proven methods for changing life and improving self esteem.

20. Mood Swings, Negative Comments And Complaining

Signs And Symptoms Of Depression - Mood Swings

If you have mood swings, negative comments and complaining, it means that you are experiencing signs and symptoms of depression. We have all endured circumstances where we find as if we are walking on eggshells around a few people who we may never count in being consistent in nature; the same applies to exhibiting signs and symptoms of depression in women. For example, if a woman in question can normally temper her impetuosity and unexpectedly she displays extreme moods, depression can be the root cause for her abnormally variable behavior. This only can apply in the case of a girl who is always positive and who complains when a real problem is at hand. It will become a problem, a symptom or sign of depression when the complaints and negativity are unwarranted.

Learn more: Top 26 Healthy Foods To Improve Mood Swings And Energy

21. Irregular Menstruation

Irregular Menstruation

Irregular menstruation is one of obvious signs and symptoms of depression in women. Irregular menstruation is definitely a physical symptom, but depression may affect the tight hormonal pattern, which comprises a normal 28-day cycle for women in the childbearing years. According to studies, women with depression claim that their depression also can cause or worsen PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome), but thus there are no direct correlation that is uncovered in clinical studies.

22. Having Difficulty In Maintaining Looks And Appearance

 

Failure to maintain looks and appearances is one of the most obvious signs and symptoms of depression in women. Unless a woman historically has not cared about her appearance, and about how she looks or dresses, then this can be a telltale sign. Stopping to wear make-up with no reason (for example: a sudden allergy to make-up), wearing sloppy or unclean clothing, failing to bath or shower, failing to keep hair freshly washed, or gaining an amount of weight fast are the top indicators or signs and symptoms of depression.

Learn more: Show And Go system – a new fitness course that covers a solution for a healthy and fit body

IV. Signs And Symptoms Of Anxiety In Men And Women

There is a research that has shown a strong connection between depression and anxiety disorders. The research indicates that men can be no more likely than women to suffer from anxiety. In fact, anxiety disorders are roundly twice as prevalent in women; however, it is often easier for men to talk about their feeling anxious rather than sad. Dr. Cook says that men can easily discuss their concerns about work and the loss of a job. Here are some signs that help you tell if a man or woman you know is suffering from anxiety.

1. Emotional Signs

Emotional signs

You can recognize some common emotional symptoms if you have anxiety such as:

  • Feeling as if your mind is gone blank
  • Watching for signs of danger
  • Restlessness
  • Irritability
  • Anticipating the worst
  • Feelings of dread pr apprehension
  • Feeling jumpy and tense
  • Trouble concentrating

2. Physical Symptoms Of Anxiety

Physical Symptoms Of Anxiety

Researchers say that anxiety is more than just a feeling. When anxiety is considered as a product of a fight-or-flight response of our body, it consists of a wide range of different physical symptoms. Because there are a lot of physical symptoms, so anxiety sufferers can mistake their anxiety disorders for a medical illness. These people can visit a few doctors and make numerous trips to the hospital before they discover their anxiety disorder. Common physical symptoms of anxiety involving:

  • Pounding heart
  • Insomnia
  • Dizziness or stomach upset
  • Sweating
  • Shortness of breath
  • Diarrhea or frequent urination
  • Tremors and twitches
  • Headaches
  • Muscle tension
  • Fatigue

3. Excessive Worry

Excessive Worry
GAD or called the hallmark of generalized anxiety disorder is the broadest type of anxiety. People with this type are worrying too much about large and small problems, or everyday things. But do you know what constitutes “excessive worry”? In the case of generalized anxiety disorder, it means that men or women have persistent anxious thoughts on almost days of week, and for 6 months. In addition, many researchers show that anxiety must be so bad as it interferes with our daily life and it is accompanied by noticeable symptoms including fatigue. S. Winston, a psychologist, and a co-director of the ASDIM in Towson says, “The distinction between an anxiety disorder and just having normal anxiety is whether your emotions are causing a lot of suffering and dysfunction.”

4. Sleep Problems

Sleep Problems

Difficulty in falling asleep or staying asleep is linked to a wide range of health conditions (both psychological and physical conditions). However, it is normal to toss and turn with anticipation on the night before a job interview or a big speech. But in case you chronically feel yourself lying awake, agitated or worried about some specific problems (such as money), or nothing in particular. This state can be a sign or symptom of anxiety disorders. By some estimates, fully half of all generalized anxiety disorder sufferers experience sleeping problems. Another sign to help you recognize you have anxiety disorders are that you wake up with the feeling wired, your mind is racing, and you are unable to calm yourself down.

Learn more: Tips To Deal With Being Nervous Effectively

5. Irrational Fears

Irrational Fears

Some anxieties are not generalized at all; on the contrary, they are attached to a specific thing or situation such as animals, flying, or crowds. If the fear becomes disruptive and overwhelming, it will be a telltale sign of the phobia disorder, a type of anxiety disorder.

Although phobia disorder can be crippling, it is not obvious at all times. In real situation, it cannot be manifested obviously until you confront a specific situation or problem and you discover that you are incapable of conquering your fear. “A person who’s afraid of snakes can go for years without having a problem,” Winston says. “But then suddenly their kid wants to go camping, and they realize they need treatment.”

Recommended reading: The Phobia Release program – a useful program for overcoming fear of all types

6. Muscle Tension

Muscle Tension

When you have muscle tension whether it consists of balling your fists, clenching your jaw, or flexing muscles throughout your body, these signs often accompany with anxiety disorders. These symptoms can be so pervasive and persistent that people who have suffered it for a long time can stop noticing it after a while. When having muscle tension, the best way is following a regular exercise plan that can help you keep your muscle tension under control. Nevertheless, the tension can flare up if an injury or other unforeseen events disrupt your workout habits, Winston says. “Suddenly they’re a wreck, because they can’t handle their anxiety in that way and now they’re incredibly restless and irritable.”

Learn more: 23 Health Benefits Of Exercise & Physical Activity For Adults

7. Chronic Indigestion

Chronic Indigestion

Researchers indicate that anxiety can begin in the mind; however, it often expresses itself in the body through some physical symptoms such as chronic digestive problems. Researchers say, “IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome, a condition that is characterized by bloating, gas, stomachaches, cramping, diarrhea or constipation, is basically an anxious state in the digestive tract.” Irritable bowel syndrome is not always associated with anxiety, but both of them often occur together and may make each other become worse. The gut is very sensitive with psychological stress; in addition, the social and physical discomfort of chronic digestive problems may make sufferers feel more anxious.

Recommended reading: Great Taste No Pain – a new book that helps you eliminate digestive problems naturally.

8. Stage Fright

Stage Fright

Psychologists say that almost people get at least a few butterflies before they address a group of people or otherwise are in the spotlight. However, if the fear is so strong that any coaching or practice will not alleviate it, and if you spend a lot of your time on worrying and thinking about it, you can get a form of social phobia or social anxiety disorder. People with social anxiety disorder tend to worry for many days or weeks caused by a particular event or situation. And if they do not try to go through with it, they can tend to be deeply uncomfortable and can dwell on it in a long time afterward.

9. Self-Consciousness

Self-Consciousness

Psychologists indicate that social anxiety disorder does not usually involve speaking to a crowd or becoming the center of attention. In almost cases, the anxiety is provoked by daily situations such as eating or drinking in front of even a small number of people or making one-on-one conversation at a party. In such situations, people with social phobia tend to find as if all eyes are on them, and they usually experience nausea, trembling, blushing, difficulty talking or profuse sweating. These signs can be so disruptive that anxiety sufferers make it hard to meet new people, keep up relationships, or advance in school or at work.

Recommended reading: Beat Your Sweating Demons – a helpful book for excessive sweating treatment

10. Panic

Panic

People with anxiety disorder often have panic attacks that can be terrifying. Psychologists say that panic attack is a sudden and gripping feeling of helplessness and fear, which may last for several minutes, and which is accompanied by physically scary symptoms including tingling or numb hands, weakness or dizziness, breathing problems, chest pain, a pounding or racing heart, excessive sweating, feeling hot or cold, and stomach pain.

Although not everyone who suffers from a panic attack will have an anxiety disorder, people who experience panic attacks frequently can be diagnosed with a panic disorder. Panic disorder sufferers live in fear about where, when, and why their next panic attack may happen, and they will tend to avoid the places where panic attacks have happened in the past.

Learn more: The Linden Method PDF – a guidebook that covers an effective cure for anxiety, panic attacks, phobias and OCD.

11. Flashbacks

Flashback (reliving a disturbing or traumatic event) such as a violent encounter, or the unexpected death of a loved one is a warning sign of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) that shares a few features with anxiety disorders. (Researchers indicate that post-traumatic stress disorder was seen as one of types of anxiety disorders rather than a stand-alone condition.)

Flashbacks can also occur with other types of anxiety. Some researches, including a study in 2006 in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders, indicate that some of people who suffer from social anxiety have experiences of PTSD-like flashbacks, which may not seem obviously traumatic as they are publicly ridiculed. These people even can avoid reminders of the experience that is another symptom reminiscent of post-traumatic stress disorder.

12. Perfectionism

Perfectionism

The obsessive and finicky mind-set is known as the perfectionism “goes hand in hand with anxiety disorders,” says Winston. “If you are constantly judging yourself or you have a lot of anticipatory anxiety about making mistakes or falling short of your standards, then you probably have an anxiety disorder.” Perfectionism is common in OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) that has some symptoms like post-traumatic stress disorder, and it has long been viewed as an anxiety disorder. Psychologist, Winston says, “OCD can happen subtly, like in the case of somebody who can’t get out of the house for three hours because their makeup has to be absolutely just right and they have to keep starting over.”

13. Compulsive Behaviors

Compulsive Behaviors

If a person’s intrusive thoughts and obsessiveness accompany with compulsive behavior, this person can be diagnosed with OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder). Compulsive behavior can be manifested in the mental aspect (telling yourself it will be all right over and over again) or physical aspect (such as hand-washing, and straightening items).

Compulsive behavior an obsessive thinking will become a full-blown disorder when you have the need to complete the behaviors that are also known as “rituals” and begin to drive your life. Psychologists say, “If you like your radio at volume level 3, for example, and it breaks and gets stuck on 4, would you be in a total panic until you could get it fixed?”

Learn more: OCD Rescue Program – a new program for people who want to free themselves from their obsessive-compulsive disorder and then take back their life.

14. Self-Doubt

Self-Doubt

Second-guessing and persistent self-doubt are common features of anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. In some cases, the doubt can revolve around a question, which is central to the identity of a person, like “Do I love my husband as much as he loves me?” or “What if I’m gay?”

Winston, a psychologist, says that doubt attacks are especially common when a question is not answerable. People with obsessive-compulsive disorder think, “If only I would know 100% for sure whether I was gay or straight, either one would be fine,” “but they have this intolerance for uncertainty that turns the question into an obsession,” says Winston.

To know more about signs and symptoms of depression and other conditions, go to our main Home Health page.

After reading my overview of signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety in men and women, I hope that it helps you get more knowledge about signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety. By mastering these warning signs, you can easily tell if someone you know is suffering from depression. This post is a part of a series about tips and advice to treat common diseases and conditions. Got a question? Need answers? Leave a comment below. Now are you ready to help yourself or someone you like get rid of signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety?

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