Depression

Depression Symptoms

Depression often looks different among those who have it, as the intensity and duration of symptoms can vary. Sometimes, feelings of depression may originate from a certain event and improve naturally. Other times, depression symptoms can be more severe and interfere with normal daily functioning. Signs of depression include:

• Persistently feeling sad, empty, anxious or hopeless.
• Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy.
• Feeling irritable, frustrated or restless.
• Lack of energy or feeling fatigued.
• Struggling to concentrate, remember things or make decisions.
• Abnormal sleep habits (e.g., oversleeping, trouble sleeping).
• Changes in eating habits (e.g., eating more than usual, having no appetite).
• Physical pain that does not go away with treatment (e.g., headaches, stomach problems).
• Feeling worthless, helpless or guilty.
• Isolating from loved ones.
• Increased substance use.
• Having thoughts about death or suicide.

If you have any of these symptoms on a regular basis, talk to your health care team right away. You can also use this screening tool from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs to help identify whether you should seek professional help.

What Can Cause Depression?

A variety of complex factors play a role in depression. It can be a result of genetics, prolonged stress, health conditions or medication side effects. Going through a major life change, like deployment or a permanent change of station (PCS), may also lead to feelings of depression. Additional experiences that can trigger depressive feelings include:

Depressive Disorders

If depression symptoms are severe or last for a long time, you may have a depressive disorder. These include major depression, persistent depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. The type of disorder will depend on the extent of symptoms. Sometimes, depressive disorders are based on specific situations such as changing seasons (seasonal affective disorder) or giving birth (postpartum depression).

Treatment Options

If you’re diagnosed with depression, your health care provider may recommend talk therapy. It can help you learn how to better control emotions, thoughts and behaviors that may be contributing to depression symptoms. Your provider might also suggest antidepressants, which are prescription medicines that change your brain chemistry to improve mood and stress.

Other Things that May Help

Practicing healthy lifestyle behaviors can help you manage tough situations and improve your mental health over time. In addition to seeking treatment, consider the following:

• Be physically active in ways you enjoy.
• Keep a consistent sleep schedule as much as possible.
• Eat well-balanced meals and drink enough water.
• Take prescription drugs only as recommended.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco products, including vaping devices.
• Connect with others and share what you’re feeling with those you trust.