5 Early Warning Signs of Depression

Major depressive disorder is a mental health issue that makes you lose interest in the things you once loved, affecting relationships, work, and social activities.

Sometimes sadness is just that—but it could also be something more. At Pacific Psychiatry & TMS, Dr. Elia R. Gonzalez-Rodriguez provides compassionate care and effective treatment for depression.

She’s an experienced psychiatrist providing medication management, TMS therapy, and GeneSight testing to give you the best treatment for your needs.

Understanding depression

Depression is a serious mood disorder that affects every aspect of your life. It makes you feel sad and hopeless, and it causes a loss of interest in the things you love.

The difference between depression and temporary sadness is that it can last for months to years without treatment. It affects every aspect of your life, including sleep, social activities, and work.

The symptoms of depression vary, but usually include emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms that range in severity.

Warning signs of depression

Not everyone recognizes that they are dealing with depression right away. It can also be difficult to notice depression in loved ones. Recognizing the early signs of depression can help individuals seek help sooner and support a healthier, more productive life.

There are many early signs of depression, but five of the most prevalent include the following:

1. Heightened worry or agitation

Feeling more agitated than usual or heightened anxiety are other key signs of early depression. You may notice that you are more irritable than usual or feel extremely worried all the time.

2. Sleep disturbances

A key sign of depression is sleeping too much or not enough. Symptoms of depression often cause issues with falling asleep or staying asleep.

3. Getting tearful often

Sadness can bring tears, but frequent or easily triggered crying may indicate depression. Persistent sadness, hopelessness, and feelings of being unable to go on are all signs of depression.

4. Pain with no cause

Depression can sometimes manifest as unexplained physical pain. Individuals may experience muscle aches or headaches without a clear cause.

5. Losing interest in things you love

A major sign of depression is losing interest in previously enjoyable activities. Individuals may withdraw from social events, exercise routines, or hobbies.

What happens next in treatment?

Most people with depression need some form of treatment to alleviate symptoms. Though some individuals with mild depression may improve on their own, seeking treatment promptly is crucial if symptoms persist.

Dr. Elia R. Gonzalez-Rodriguez evaluates your symptoms to determine the best treatment approach. Many individuals start with psychotherapy and/or medication. 

Therapy helps you understand emotions, while medication addresses brain chemistry. The treatment plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted for your needs.

If depression is not improved with therapy or medication, other options are available. One is Spravato®, a nasal spray with esketamine, which can relieve symptoms rapidly, sometimes within 24 hours. This is generally considered for those who have not responded to initial treatments.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation may also be recommended when other treatments are not effective. This noninvasive procedure uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve activity, promoting neurotransmitter production and symptom relief.

Contact Pacific Phoenix Psychiatry & TMS to schedule an appointment for depression treatment, medication management, TMS therapy, or Spravato.