And at various times when your symptoms worsened, you may also have felt blue. Unlike 'the blues,' depression does not go away after a few days. However, many people diagnosed with chronic GI conditions don't realize they're suffering from depression. Since both have many common symptoms, recognizing a depression can be difficult. For example, symptoms of depression such as irritability, sleep disturbances, and low energy, also occur in non-depressed people with GI conditions.
Accurate diagnosis is critical to developing an effective plan for overcoming a depression.
Not every person who becomes depressed will experience all symptoms at the same time, or with the same intensity. But, in general, if several of these symptoms last for more than two weeks, be suspicious. Symptoms of Depression Sadness Guilt Loss of interests Long-lasting crying spells Restless, irritable and discontent Constant tiredness or fatigue Always worrying Changes in eating and sleeping habits and patterns Inability to concentrate or make decisions Thoughts of suicide or death. A careful assessment of emotional state, and personal and family histories by a physician or mental health professional can help determine if depression is suspected. One big difference between grieving and clinical depression is that a depressed person will often lack self-esteem, feel personally inadequate or hopeless.