Depression is an extremely common illness that in the affects over 40 million adults in the U.S. every year. While many people can identify when a friend, coworker, or loved one has depression by the obvious signs, there are many people who suffer silently with less-obvious displays of depression. 

The most known signs of depression are sadness and loss of interest in activities. Additionally, many people who become depressed undergo sudden appetite changes or a dramatic change of weight. However, sometimes depression is displayed in a more subtle way that can easily be looked over.

Over-exhaustion, tiredness, and fatigue are more subtle signs of depression that may not seem as obvious. Depression can cause abrupt changes in sleep patterns, causing a person to get a lack sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to depression due to neurochemical changes in the brain or a lack of serotonin. 

Many people who are depressed suffer from an excessive and persistent amount of tiredness. Along with getting little sleep, sleeping too much can be a sign that someone has depression.

Trailing off during conversations, constantly losing a train of thought, and other issues with concentration can be a symptom of depression. The impact of concentration can worsen a depression, as a lack of concentration can make both work and personal relationships more challenging. 

Often this inability to concentrate comes from either a lack of sleep or from constantly turning over regrets or worries in a person’s head.

Excessive drug and alcohol usage can also be a hidden sign of depression. Many people who suffer from depression also develop drug or alcohol dependencies, eating disorders, or other additions. 

Many times, alcohol and drugs are used to self-medicate undiagnosed or diagnosed depression. Those who are most likely to use an excessive number of drugs or alcohol due to depression usually suffer from an alternative mood disorder in conjunction to depression.

Sudden mood changes, such as being angry, irritable, or even changes in your partner’s sex drive, can be significant signs of depression. Another example of a subtle sign of depression is lashing out or having a short temper. If you see someone yelling or aggressively irate often, they may be dealing with severe depression.

Not only does depression affect someone mentally, but it can also physically harm you. One sign of depression that many people do not see is the physical pain it can bring you. This pain can be in the form of back aches, chronic pain, digestive issues, headaches, and in some cases, more serious conditions such as autoimmune conditions or arthritis. Depression has also been linked to cancer, heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes. 

Not everyone with depression will show the same, typical signs of sadness. While many people look to the common signs of depression, these less obvious displays of depression should be investigated further. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should reach out to a professional, talk to a friend, and find support.

Written by: Janah Merlin