Surprising Signs of Depression

Medically Reviewed by Smitha Bhandari, MD on March 16, 2023

Shopping Sprees

Are you struggling to control your shopping habits? Do you find yourself trying to hide your excessive spending? For individuals experiencing depression, compulsive shopping either in physical stores or online can sometimes serve as a way to distract themselves or boost their self-esteem. However, engaging in "retail therapy" only provides temporary relief as it fails to address the underlying issues of depression. It's important to recognize that excessive shopping sprees could also indicate manic episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder.

Heavy Drinking

Approximately one-third of individuals with major depression misuse alcohol. If you feel the need to drink in order to cope with feelings of anxiety and depression, you might fall into this category. Although alcohol may initially seem to lift your spirits when you're feeling low, it is a depressant, and excessive consumption can exacerbate episodes of depression and make them more frequent.

Forgetfulness

Depression can contribute to feelings of mental fog or forgetfulness. Research indicates that prolonged periods of depression or stress can elevate cortisol levels in the body, which can negatively impact the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning. Memory issues associated with depression tend to be more pronounced in older individuals. The good news is that treating depression can also help improve memory problems linked to depression.

Excessive Internet Use

If you find yourself preferring virtual social interactions over real-life ones and spending excessive amounts of time online, it could be a sign of depression. Studies have shown a correlation between high levels of depression and compulsive Internet usage. Individuals who excessively use the Internet often gravitate towards pornography, online communities, and gaming sites.

Binge Eating and Obesity

A study conducted in 2010 at the University of Alabama revealed that young adults reporting feelings of depression tended to gain weight around their waist, increasing their risk of heart disease. Other studies have linked depression with binge eating, particularly among middle-aged individuals. Addressing depression can help in managing these issues.

Shoplifting

Approximately one-third of individuals who engage in shoplifting suffer from depression. For some individuals grappling with feelings of powerlessness and insignificance due to depression, shoplifting can provide a sense of power and importance. It can also offer a temporary rush that counters the numbness associated with depression. In cases where individuals shoplift due to depression, the emotional fulfillment derived from the act outweighs the value of the items stolen.

Back Pain

Experiencing persistent back pain? Studies suggest that depression can be a risk factor for chronic lower back pain. Research indicates that up to 42% of individuals with chronic lower back pain had experienced depression prior to the onset of their back pain. Unfortunately, depression is often overlooked or undiagnosed as the cause of physical discomfort. Conversely, chronic pain can increase the likelihood of developing depression.

Risky Sexual Behavior

While depression is commonly associated with a decrease in libido rather than an increase in sexual interest, some individuals turn to sex as a coping mechanism for depression or stress. Heightened promiscuity, infidelity, sexual fixation, and engaging in high-risk behaviors like unsafe sex can all be indicators of depression. These behaviors may also signify issues related to impulse control or indicate manic episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder, with potential detrimental effects on health and personal life.

Exaggerated Emotions

Individuals experiencing depression may exhibit either limited emotional expression or, conversely, excessive emotional displays. They might suddenly become irritable or explosive, express exaggerated feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worry, or fear, or feel overwhelmed by a sense of worthlessness or excessive guilt. A notable shift in behavior, such as transitioning from emotional flatness to hyperemotional states, could be indicative of depression.

Problem Gambling

Engaging in gambling activities can evoke feelings of excitement and stimulation. However, if gambling transcends recreational boundaries, it may be a sign of depression or a gambling addiction disorder. Individuals struggling with gambling problems are more likely to experience depression and alcohol abuse. Many report feelings of anxiety and depression preceding their gambling habits. Despite the temporary thrill gambling provides, it does not offer a lasting solution for alleviating depression.

Smoking

If you find it challenging to quit smoking, being depressed can double your risk of continuing the habit. Heavy smoking, defined as smoking more than a pack a day, and the habit of lighting up a cigarette within five minutes of waking up are common patterns among depressed smokers, as reported by the CDC. While individuals with depression may find it harder to quit smoking, there are programs available that utilize techniques similar to those used in depression treatment, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or antidepressant medications, which have shown promise in aiding smoking cessation.

Not Taking Care of Yourself

Neglecting basic self-care practices, such as failing to fasten your seatbelt, can be an indication of depression and low self-esteem. Signs of neglecting self-care can range from minor actions like skipping routine hygiene practices to more significant lapses such as avoiding medical check-ups or neglecting chronic health conditions like heart disease or diabetes. Seeking help for depression can lead to a resurgence in self-care habits.