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Signs and Symptoms

After spending the last year coping with the physical and emotional effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, most of us aren’t feeling completely like ourselves. Increased irritability, loneliness, sadness, worry and trouble sleeping all are normal side effects of life under lockdown.  

However, clinical depression and anxiety are much different from the average pandemic peeves. Below are common signs to watch for and free ways for you to get help for yourself or a loved one and move toward recovery.  

Via: SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)

Signs of depression

Depression is diagnosable when someone exhibits five or more of these symptoms for two weeks or longer:

  • Irritable mood
  • Inability to focus
  • Inability to make decisions
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness
  • Changes in diet, weight or sleeping habits
  • Loss of interests in activities that are usually enjoyed
  • Isolation from family and friends
  • Lack of energy
  • Increased use of drugs and alcohol
  • Suicidal thoughts

    • Signs of general anxiety disorder

    People experience anxiety differently, and there are different types of anxiety disorders. Here are some of the most common hallmarks of an anxiety disorder, lasting six months or longer:

  • Excessive worrying or sense of dread lasting six months or longer
  • Feelings of terror or impending doom, disproportional to actual events
  • Difficulty sleeping and restlessness
  • Fatigue
  • Concentration issues Tension and/or irritability
  • Decreased social activity
  • Increased heart rate and palpitations
  • Panic attacks
  • Sweating and hot flashes
  • Trembling/shaking
  • Chest pains
  • Shortness of breath

    • Signs of suicide risk

  • Thoughts of death and suicide
  • Talk of death and suicide
  • Looking for ways to end one’s life
  • Isolation from family and friends
  • Increased use of drugs and alcohol
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness
  • Saying goodbyes to loved ones
  • Giving away valued possessions
  • Changes in sleeping patterns
  • Moods such as anger, irritability or depression

    • Find help for free

    If you recognize the symptoms above in yourself, a friend, colleague or loved one, please know there are people who want to help you and them feel better. Here are some free ways to reach out 24/7: 

    • SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) helpline 
      800-662-HELP (4357) 

    • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 
      800-273-TALK (8255) 

    • Crisis Text Line 
      Text CONNECT to 741741 to connect to a trained crisis counselor anytime 24/7 

    • 7 Cups 
      Visit 7cups.com to chat one-on-one with volunteer listeners or in support chat groups 

     

    The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website.

    If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately.