7 Habits You Might Develop Because Of Depression

7 Habits You Might Develop Because Of Depression

Shreya Sharma

January 18, 2022

Fact Checked by: Shreya Sharma

3 mins read

Do you consider yourselves knowledgeable enough to spot the signs of depression? If you have been reading our blogs or other self-help journals related to psychology, you might answer yes. While we appreciate the awareness that’s been spread regarding better mental wellness across India, there might be some information that we may have missed regarding depression.

Let’s educate ourselves to recognise certain signs that could possibly mean, a person is asking for help

1) Irregular Sleeping And Eating Patterns

The most prominent symptom of depression is significant disturbance in someone’s eating and sleeping habits. The most common manifestations would be insomnia and weight loss due to loss of appetite. Some people who struggle with depression may end up overeating and oversleeping as well. This is called atypical depression and those who have it are at a higher risk of being undiagnosed or labelled as simply being lazy or diet conscious.

2) Mood Swings

Have you ever noticed being unable to control your emotions lately? Do you often feel angry, upset, hurt, or irritated? Even though we might picture someone who’s depressed as being emotionally numb, insensitive, or apathetic – depression can make us moodier, vulnerable, and emotionally weak and volatile. Having frequent outburst like suddenly crying for no reason or snapping at your friend out of the blue can possibly mean that someone’s mental health is declining.

3) Dropping Hints That You Need Help And Not Being Direct About It

Do you struggle with asking for help? As much as we like our independence, there is no shame in asking for help if needed. The problem in people with depression is that they find it painfully difficult to ask for help because they fear being judged or their struggles will be invalidated or misunderstood. So, they resort to struggling by themselves and stop halfway. Some examples include, telling your friend you want to tell them something but refusing to do so at the time or denying the fact you’re not okay even when you’re crying or breaking down or having a dark sense of humour.

4) Overspending Or Shopping Out Of Control

Do you find yourself buying lots of things on impulse when you used to prefer saving more and being economical? For some people suffering from depression this type of behaviour is not common. Buying things to make you feel better or treating yourself to luxury goods to serve the distraction or to boost your self esteem is most likely a non-adaptive coping mechanism.

5) Constantly Searching For Answers

Searching for meaning is something that is inherent to human nature. All of us are curious to know our purpose or reason for existing. But unlike people struggling with depression, it isn’t a priority or in the forefront of our minds. Depression however has this way of making us feel that we’re constantly wasting our time. It makes us question our potential because we feel we’re not chasing greatness of success. You believe in perfectionism – you wanna be great or nothing! This is exactly the reason why people who are depressed feel vulnerable and inadequate. In reality, it doesn’t matter if you don’t complete your goals or feel like you’re in the same place. Your life is great and still worth living!

6) Reflecting On Life And Death

Are you someone who believes to be very philosophical? Sometimes people struggling with depression is that they can be very insightful and wise behind their years. This is because they spend a lot of time thinking and pondering about life and death. Indeed, depression can make the most easy going extrovert in us be philosophical and intense.

7) Being More Creative

Last but not least, something might surprise you about how creative a person can get when they’re depressed. Hemmingway, Vincent Van Gough and a lot of other artists have in common is that they were mentally not okay. This is not a point to romanticize depression, but studies have proven that depressions evoke the creative gene in people’s minds. It is said to be an outlet to express oneself and make a world of difference from all the negative thoughts.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs, please listen to their concerns, be with them and refer them to a licensed professional.

Related Articles

Recognizing the Signs of Panic Attacks

Recognizing the Signs of Panic Attacks

Panic attacks are intense periods of fear or discomfort that come on suddenly and peak within minutes. These episodes can occur unexpectedly or in response to a trigger, such as a feared object or situation. Understanding the nature of panic attacks, their symptoms, and common triggers is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Aparajita
March 26, 20245 min read
Struggling to Stay Focused? Tips to Improve Concentration

Struggling to Stay Focused? Tips to Improve Concentration

Understanding the neurological underpinnings of concentration and focus is crucial in addressing the challenges associated with maintaining attention in today's distraction-filled environment. The brain's prefrontal cortex, often referred to in neuroscience as the center for executive functions, plays a pivotal role in our ability to concentrate. This region orchestrates attention, decision-making, and problem-solving, making it the linchpin of focus. Neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine also significantly influence our concentration levels, affecting our alertness and ability to concentrate.

Aparajita
March 26, 20245 min read
Understanding Signs of Depression and What to Do

Understanding Signs of Depression and What to Do

Depression is a common but serious mood disorder that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. It's important to distinguish depression from the occasional feelings of sadness or mood fluctuations everyone experiences. Depression involves persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest that last for two weeks or more, significantly interfering with daily work, school, social activities, and family life. This condition goes beyond the realm of normal emotional responses and often requires professional treatment.

Aparajita
March 24, 20245 min read
How to Tell If You're Stressed: Understanding Signs and Solutions with Careme Health

How to Tell If You're Stressed: Understanding Signs and Solutions with Careme Health

In today's fast-paced world, stress has become a common companion for many of us, weaving seamlessly into the fabric of our daily lives. This phenomenon holds especially true in the bustling life rhythms of India, where rapid urbanization, competitive work environments, and evolving societal expectations contribute to an ever-increasing stress burden among its population. Understanding stress, its origins, and its potential impacts on our physical and mental well-being is more crucial now than ever.

Aparajita
March 22, 20245 min read
7 questions you should ask every employee wellbeing provider

7 questions you should ask every employee wellbeing provider

7 questions you should ask every employee wellbeing provider Selecting an employee well-being provider is a critical decision for organizations committed to fostering a healthy and productive workplace. With the growing awareness of mental health in India, companies are increasingly seeking comprehensive solutions like CareMe Health to support their employees' well-being. When evaluating potential providers, asking the right questions can guide you to make an informed choice that aligns with your organization's values and needs. Here are seven essential questions to consider, backed by insights from studies and real-world practices.

Shivani Sati
March 22, 20245 min read
The mental health benefits employees expect from their employers

The mental health benefits employees expect from their employers

The Mental Health Benefits Employees Expect from Their Employers As we navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, the importance of mental health support has never been clearer. Employees across India are seeking workplaces that not only acknowledge but actively support their mental well-being. Here's what employees are looking for and how CareMe Health is meeting these needs.

Shivani Sati
March 20, 20245 min read