Depression is a complex mental health disorder that manifests as persistent sadness, fatigue, and altered cognitive function. It affects daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
If diagnosed with depression, tailored depression therapy in Singapore may be recommended as the impact varies among individuals. To ensure the best-customized therapy, your mental health doctor will consider factors like personal history, severity, and co-existing conditions.
Tailoring interventions, whether therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes, ensures a more precise and effective response. Personalized care addresses unique challenges to ensure stable recovery and prevent relapse.
When does a Depressed Person require help?
Depression doesn’t resolve on its own and without intervention, it can endure for years, worsening over time. Seeking professional help is key for managing this complex mental health condition which explains why so many people ask; when does a depressed person require help? Here are ten signs it is time to seek help for depression;
I. Feelings of Hopelessness
Some of the most significant indicators of depression are persistent feelings of despair and an inability to envision a future beyond pain. Now, occasional bouts of sadness are normal. However, when it spirals to feelings of hopelessness, where moving forward seems impossible, it may be time to see a mental health professional for depression therapy in Singapore.
Timely medical care is important as depression can distort your outlook. So, it is crucial to recognize when negative emotions become overwhelming and persistent to the point of hindering daily functioning.
II. Unexplained Physical Discomfort
Beyond affecting mental well-being, depression manifests physically. In this case, it may lead to unexplained aches and pains.
Unexpected physical discomfort due to depression can come in the form of bloating, backaches, or joint pain.
These symptoms can be an underlying sign of depression so, acknowledging the connection between mental and physical health is vital. That said, persistent physical symptoms with no apparent cause should not be casually ignored. It is best to see a professional for assessment and to rule out depression as a potential cause.
III. Substance Dependence as Coping
Coping with anxiety or depression through substance use isn’t an appealing development. According to studies, close to 20 percent of persons with mood disorders, including depression, also struggle with substance abuse.
It is best to seek help not just for managing mental health but also for substance abuse itself if substances become a crutch for managing emotional distress. As a general rule, you will want to address the dual challenges of depression and substance abuse to ensure comprehensive and effective treatment.
IV. Appetite Fluctuations and Eating Changes
As you have now seen, depression can manifest in diverse ways. And a key indicator of depression is fluctuations in appetite and eating habits.
Depending on how the condition affects you, you may find yourself overindulging in comfort foods. You may also simply lose interest in eating altogether. Significant changes in weight (more than 5 percent in a month) signal potential depression-related issues.
Your doctor may want to monitor alterations in eating patterns to get insights into emotional well-being. Depending on the report from the assessment, timely intervention may be warranted.
V. Overwhelming Guilt and Self-Reproach
Depression may also come with feelings of guilt and self-reproach which are just inappropriate. Repetitive thoughts of inadequacy, such as “I’m not good enough,” can trigger a negative emotional spiral.
It is important to recognize persistent feelings of worthlessness as they may contribute to worsening mood. In extreme cases, they may even lead to self-harm. Seeking depression therapy on time could be what you need to get through these harmful thought patterns and develop healthier perspectives.
VI. Cognitive Struggle and Decision Difficulty
Depression extends beyond occasional forgetfulness or scattered thinking. An ongoing lack of concentration and difficulty making decisions can impact work performance and daily responsibilities.
Increased mistakes at work or frequent sick days may be signs of an underlying mental health issue. Recognizing these cognitive challenges is vital for seeking appropriate support and managing depression’s impact on daily functioning.
VII. Loss of Interest in Once-Enjoyable Activities
A sudden disinterest in once-beloved activities, like movies, music, or hobbies should also not be casually ignored as they may point to potential depression. The loss of interest in this case may manifest in the form of diminished interest even without attempting to engage in these pastimes.
This apathy towards previously enjoyable pursuits is a clear red flag for emotional distress. It is important to acknowledge and address this shift in interests to be able to effectively restore emotional well-being and seek timely professional assistance.
VIII. Shifts in Sleep Habits
Disturbed sleep patterns are a hallmark of depression and an indicator of a need for tailored depression therapy in Singapore. The variations here can range from excessive sleep to insomnia.
Please keep in mind that sleep disorders don’t directly cause depression. However, irregular sleep can exacerbate mood fluctuations.
With this in mind, if you suspect that you or a loved one is battling depression, you may want to be vigilant in regard to sleep habits is crucial. Persistent disruptions should prompt seeking professional assistance.
IX. Increased Irritability and Agitation
Heightened irritability and mood swings can also be red flags for depression. Sigmund Freud likened depression to anger turned inward, and increased irritability may manifest as frustration with seemingly minor triggers.
Immediate help is warranted if everyday annoyances lead to disproportionate reactions or if thoughts of self-harm surface. It is important to not only acknowledge but also address heightened emotional responses to prevent potential harm and ensure a safer mental health environment.
X. Contemplation of Death, Suicide, or Self-Harm
Immediate help is imperative if thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or death persist. Silence regarding these thoughts poses serious risks.
Recognizing the urgency, it’s crucial to disclose such feelings to someone trustworthy. The link between thoughts and actions is delicate, making open communication vital for preventing devastating outcomes.
Seeking immediate assistance ensures a supportive and professional response to safeguard mental health and well-being. As earlier explained, the support may take the form of tailored depression therapy in Singapore to address the issue from the root.
It is a Wrap!
Depression may be a complex mental health issue but it can be managed effectively. While it is not easy to tell if you’re depressed, don’t wait to seek professional help if you notice any of the patterns highlighted above in you or a loved one.
If you’re in Singapore and seeking help for suspected depression, we can help. To connect with our team of skilled therapists, call or visit us at;
Connections MindHealth @ Marina Bay Financial Centre
#01-03 Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 2,
10 Marina Boulevard,
Singapore 018983
OR
Connections MindHealth @ Nanyang Technological University
#01-01 Nanyang Technological University Student Health Centre,
36 Nanyang Avenue,
Singapore 639801
