I think in our day and age, most people might know how to recognize depression by looking it up with ease online and understanding how to deal with it, or even treat it.
the problem I find with most of my patients with depression,however, is that before they decide to come visit me, they usually think that they can beat it or outwit it with time, and many are in denial that they even have it severe enough to warrant treatment, and that is where Depression is dangerous the most.
I think that people should immediately seek help if they start feeling or experiencing any signs of depression early on, as most studied and clinical trails have proved that responding to treatment is best achieved when treatment is started early.
most of people already know signs of depression like low mood, lack of interest and a general feeling of unhappiness or sadness.
However, there are other signs that might not be as clear or as indicative for depression which might include :
* low energy and feelings of heavy weights, as i have noticed from many of patients these types of complaints, that they generally feel heavy, as if there are weights pulling them down. and so a general feeling of low energy and inability to perform everyday tasks.
* feelings of emptiness, where someone just feel empty inside and lost, not knowing where he belongs and where his future is headed, completely lost.
* self isolation, not interested in company or in talking with anyone around him, and not willing to go out of his room or house.
of course, each individual with depression may have any of the above, and might present with his own unique signs of depression, the point is, not to delay seeking help.