Symptoms of winter depression

The layman’s term winter depression is referred to in technical jargon as seasonal depression. It occurs mainly in the dark autumn and winter months. The cause is most likely to be a lack of daylight, which in more susceptible people can upset the messenger substance balance in the body and thus cause depression.

The symptoms are similar to those of non-seasonal depression. It leads to depression, lack of interest in activities that were otherwise enjoyable, lack of joy, fatigue and exhaustion, significant loss of drive and concentration problems. In contrast to non-seasonal depression, winter depression tends to increase appetite with weight gain rather than weight loss, and the sleeping behaviour in seasonal depression is shifted towards an increased need for sleep rather than sleep disorders. Moodiness and inner tension also occur.

Symptoms of pregnancy depression

The symptoms that can occur during pregnancy depression are similar to those of depression in non-pregnant women. It can lead to depressed mood, strong listlessness and constant fatigue. In addition, there may be a lack of interest or joy in things that you would otherwise have enjoyed.

Concentration problems, excessive irritability, the feeling of helplessness and eating disorders with either little or excessive appetite also occur. Feelings of guilt or inferiority can also occur. In addition, those affected often complain of severe mood swings and frequent crying. Anxiety can also play a role during pregnancy depression.

Detecting depression

Not every person is obviously recognized as depressed. Even if the symptoms described are omnipresent for the person concerned and have an all-encompassing effect on his or her life, it may appear to outsiders as if this person is the centre of life, successful and happy. Sometimes it takes years before the person collapses or the person has to struggle with the depression for the rest of his or her life, but appears unaffected to the outside world.

Depression can also hide behind addictions, such as alcohol and gambling. A frequent change of partner can also be a sign of depression or depressive moods. Such a hidden form of depression is also known as latent depression.

The full picture of a depression must be clearly distinguished in its severity from other possible forms. Often the person affected is no longer able to lead an independent life. He cannot separate himself from his negative feelings and is appropriated by them. The diagnosis of a severe depression can be made according to the current diagnostic schemes when the following criteria are met, of which at least 5 must be met over a period of two weeks

Depressed, depressive or irritable mood over a long period of time and continuously
Significantly reduced interest or pleasure in almost all activities
Significant weight gain or weight loss without diet (over 5% of body weight in one month) or significantly reduced appetite
Insomnia or increased sleep on almost all days
Inner tension or restlessness, which can manifest itself in jerky, nervous movements
Tiredness or loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or disproportionate guilt
Reduced ability to concentrate and make decisions