Lesser known symptoms of depression

When people think of depression, they often picture sadness, crying, and a persistent sense of hopelessness. But depression can manifest in many ways—some of which might be less obvious. Understanding these lesser-known symptoms can help us recognize when someone might be struggling, even if they don’t fit the stereotypical image of depression. Here are a few signs that may fly under the radar:

1. Irritability or Anger

While sadness is often at the forefront of depression discussions, irritability is a common but often overlooked symptom, especially in men and teens. Instead of feeling down, some people may find themselves snapping at loved ones, losing their temper over small issues, or feeling generally on edge. This anger can be a way that underlying feelings of pain, frustration, or helplessness surface.

2. Changes in Appetite or Weight

Depression doesn’t always come with a loss of appetite—sometimes, it’s the opposite. Emotional eating, using food as a way to self-soothe or cope with low mood, can be a sign of depression. Some people might find themselves eating more to fill an emotional void, while others lose their appetite entirely. Rapid changes in weight, whether gaining or losing, can signal that something deeper is going on.

3. Trouble Concentrating or Memory Issues

Depression can affect cognitive functions like memory and focus. People might find themselves zoning out during conversations, struggling to finish tasks, or constantly forgetting details. It can feel like your mind is covered in a fog, making it hard to stay present. This can add to feelings of frustration or guilt, as people might start to blame themselves for being "lazy" or "unmotivated," when, in reality, their brain is struggling to function under the weight of depression.

4. Physical Aches and Pains

Depression doesn’t just affect the mind—it can take a toll on the body too. Muscle tension, headaches, back pain, or even stomach issues can sometimes be related to depression. Our bodies hold stress, and when emotional distress is chronic, it can manifest in physical discomfort. These symptoms are often misattributed to other causes, leaving the underlying depression unaddressed.

5. Loss of Interest in Things That Used to Matter

You might have heard this one as “anhedonia,” a fancy word for losing interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy. But it doesn’t always show up in obvious ways. It might look like someone suddenly not wanting to hang out with friends, neglecting hobbies, or skipping activities they once looked forward to. The things that used to light them up don’t seem to have the same spark anymore.

6. Feeling Emotionally Numb

Sometimes, depression isn’t sadness; it’s an absence of feeling altogether. People might describe this as feeling "numb" or like they’re going through the motions without any real emotional response. It can feel like the world is in black and white—there’s no joy, but no deep sadness either, just a kind of emptiness. This can be especially confusing for those who believe depression is supposed to feel like overwhelming sadness.

7. Excessive Guilt or Self-Blame

Everyone feels guilty now and then, but in depression, it can become all-consuming. Someone might constantly feel like they’re failing others, even when they aren’t. They might ruminate on small mistakes from the past or blame themselves for things beyond their control. This guilt can feed into a negative self-image, reinforcing feelings of worthlessness or despair.

8. Trouble Making Decisions

For some, depression can create a paralyzing indecision. Choices that used to feel simple—like what to eat for dinner or what to watch on TV—can become incredibly difficult. This might come from a place of feeling overwhelmed, a lack of motivation, or a fear of making the “wrong” decision, even if the stakes are low. This struggle to make choices can compound other symptoms, leading to feelings of frustration and helplessness.

Why These Symptoms Matter

Recognizing these lesser-known symptoms can make a world of difference. It can help people understand that they aren’t alone in their experiences, and that what they’re going through is real, even if it doesn’t match the stereotype of depression. It can also encourage those who might not realize they’re struggling to seek support, including therapy, which can offer a space to explore what’s going on beneath the surface, whether it’s sadness, numbness, or something else entirely.