Depression is a commonly known mental health condition and most people often attribute depression to a loss of interest in activities they used to previously do, sleeping too much and/or lack of energy. The weather, particularly in the winter season when the clocks go back (in the United Kingdom) can also have an impact on mood, which is known as seasonal affective disorder.
Depression can affect people from different walks of life, young or old, male or female. Research shows that environmental, genetics, biological and psychological factors can play a significant role. There are certain risk factors that can make a person more susceptible to depression such as trauma, family history of depression or stress.
So what are some uncommon signs and symptoms that may signal that someone is struggling?
Overworking
Someone who is depressed or starting to feel depressed may start to take on more than they can at work. They may also take more work to avoid themselves from either feeling their feelings or having to talk about their feelings to others. They may mask and keep up appearances to show that everything is ‘fine’ when it is indeed not.
Gaining weight or losing weight
Depression can affect our appetite thus having a direct impact on our weight gain or loss. Some people may undereat or they may over eat.
Difficulty expressing or showing emotions
It can be difficult to share how you’re feeling and what you’re thinking, this could be due to feeling numb and disconnected from others around you.
Brain Fog
Brain fog can often be linked to neurodevelopmental conditions, but a systematic review compiled by Maria Semkovska and colleagues highlighted that depression can reduce cognitive abilities, have an impact on our working memory, decision-making and our ability to focus.