Symptoms, Signs, & Effects of Depression

The signs of depression can vary depending on the individual and the type of depression they are suffering from. However, there are some common signs and symptoms that may suggest that you or a loved one is struggling and could benefit from professional support. These include:  

• Feeling sad or irritable 
• Agitation or restlessness 
• No longer enjoying regular activities 
• Changes in weight or appetite 
• Sleep problems 
• Low energy 
• Feeling worthless or hopeless 
• Poor concentration 
• Struggling to perform everyday tasks 
• Memory difficulties 
• Excessive worry 
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors 

Seeking prompt care for depression symptoms can help you achieve the most positive outcomes on your healing journey.  

A variety of biological and environmental factors can contribute to someone developing symptoms of depression. Potential depression causes and risk factors include: 

• Having a history of depression in your family 
• Physical differences in brain chemistry 
• Stressful life circumstances or events 
• Having low self-esteem 
• Exposure to abuse or neglect 
• Having a serious physical illness 
• Trauma 

Depression can occur at any age. But for major depressive disorder, one of the most common types of depression, symptom onset often begins during early adulthood. 

The following depression statistics help show the prevalence and impact of this challenging condition. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 6 adults will struggle with depression during their life. Additionally, about 16 million U.S. adults suffer from depression each year.  

The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that, in 2020, around 21 million U.S. adults, or 8.4%, had one or more major depressive episodes.  

Additionally, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, in 2020, about 66% of U.S. adults who had a major depressive episode received professional help in the previous 12 months. Among those who had severe impairment, about 71% received professional care.  

Though the effects of depression will vary from person to person, the following are some of the common physical, social, and emotional impacts that can occur: 

• Reduced self-esteem 
• Substance use 
• Conflict in family or social relationships 
• Poor self-care 
• Trouble functioning at work or school 
• Higher risk for pain and physical health problems 
• Early death due to health concerns 
• Self-harm 
• Higher risk for suicide 

Getting professional help can be an important step toward reducing the effects of depression on your future health and well-being.  

The process of healing from depression is not always straightforward or linear. While some people might have only one episode of depression in their life, most people will experience a return of symptoms at some point. 

It’s important to remember that challenges and setbacks are often part of the healing process. They do not represent failure, and with appropriate care, it’s possible to continue making progress toward the life you want. By addressing challenges sooner rather than later, you can increase your chances of long-term success.  

At Maple Heights Behavioral Health, we work to foster an empowering environment. By tailoring care to each patient’s specific needs and offering a variety of therapies and services, we aim to equip each person with the skills and resources that can support them in the long-term. We know that healing may continue long after a particular care experience ends, so we make sure to help patients plan for the services they may need in the future. 

Healing from depression often requires consistent effort and dedication. But with the right tools and strategies, many people experience symptom relief and improved health. Whatever your unique set of needs, personalized support is available.  

It’s common for people who suffer from depression to have other co-occurring conditions, including substance use disorders.  

If you are struggling with multiple concerns at the same time, it is important to find support that can comprehensively address your needs and give you the best chance of achieving your therapeutic goals. By getting a thorough assessment and receiving a comprehensive care plan, you can help ensure you receive support that promotes optimal outcomes.  

Maple Heights Behavioral Health provides care for people who are struggling with a variety of mental health and substance use disorders, including those who have a dual diagnosis of both.