Recognizing the Signs of Depression
Let’s be real—depression isn’t just “feeling sad.” It’s not just crying during a commercial or having a rough day at work. Depression can make you feel like you're "sick" or something is "wrong with you." You likely don't feel like yourself, no matter what situation you're in. And if you’ve experienced trauma, whether recently or in the past, it has a way of sticking around. It buries itself deep, resurfacing when you least expect it, and depression is often one of the ways it makes itself known. So, how do you know if what you’re feeling is depression or just a rough patch? Let’s break it down.
Common Signs of Depression
Persistent Sadness or Emptiness
Not just a bad mood—this is the kind of sadness that lingers, even when good things happen. It's like you're in a funk you just can't seem to get out of, no matter how much you want to.
Loss of Interest in Things You Used to Enjoy
Hobbies? Socializing? Even basic things like showering? If it all feels like too much effort, depression might be at fault.
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Can’t sleep? Sleeping way too much? Either way, your brain is struggling to regulate itself. If you find yourself using sleep as an escape, that may be a sign of depression.
Fatigue That Doesn’t Go Away
Not just “I need a nap” tired—more like “I’m exhausted no matter how much I sleep” tired. Trauma and depression drain your energy like you would not believe.
Irritability or Increased Anger
Depression doesn’t always look like sadness. For some, it shows up as being constantly annoyed, short-tempered, or feeling like you’re one inconvenience away from losing it.
Changes in Appetite or Weight
Eating way more than usual? No appetite at all? Depression can mess with your hunger cues, making food either a source of comfort or completely unappealing.
Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions
Simple tasks feel overwhelming, and decisions (no matter how big or small) seem absolutely impossible.
Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt
Constantly thinking you’re not good enough, that you’re a burden, or replaying past mistakes? Depression loves to lie and talk shit to you.
Physical Symptoms Without a Clear Cause
Headaches, body aches, digestive issues—depression doesn’t just mess with your mind, it can take a toll on your body, too.
Thoughts of Death or Suicide
If you’re having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please reach out for help. You are not alone, and things can get better. (If you need immediate support, reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.)
Why Trauma and Depression Go Hand in Hand
Unresolved trauma can keep your nervous system in survival mode long after the danger has passed. Your brain might still be running on high alert or, alternatively, shutting down as a way to cope. This can lead to feeling disconnected, exhausted, or emotionally numb—all common signs of depression. The weight of unprocessed trauma can make it harder to function in daily life, and before you know it, you’re stuck in a cycle that feels impossible to break.
So, What Can You Do About It?
First, acknowledge that what you’re feeling is real and valid. You’re not lazy, broken, or weak. Depression is a real condition, and you don’t have to tough it out alone. Therapy can help. Whether it’s EMDR for trauma processing, Internal Family Systems (IFS) to work through different parts of yourself, or just having a space to unload without judgment, talking to a professional can be life-changing. And no, therapy isn’t just for people who “have it worse" than you. If you’re struggling, that’s enough reason to reach out.
If you’re tired of feeling stuck and want support, I’m here to help. You don’t have to keep pretending you’re fine. Let’s get you back to feeling like you again. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation—because you deserve to feel better.
