Managing Low Mood

Depression: 5 Signs You Need to See a Psychologist

28 January 2022 by Shannon Ward

Depression is a debilitating illness that can impact how people feel, think and behave. It can be very difficult to cope with depression on your own, so if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to see a psychologist.

1. You're having trouble sleeping or eating

Depression can cause people not to have the appetite they usually do, leading to problems with being able to eat and resultant weight loss. Not being able to sleep properly is one of the most well-known signs of depression. You may find that your mind is racing with negative thoughts that keep you awake at night. Exploring these thoughts with a psychologist can help you to sleep better.

2. You can't concentrate on anything

 Depression can have a significant impact on your cognitive abilities and your attention span. If you find yourself having a hard time completing even small tasks, such as focusing on your homework or remembering to pay the bills, this could be a sign that you're not in a good place mentally and need to seek medical treatment.

3. You feel numb or detached from the world around you

Sometimes depression symptoms are hard to spot because they can be subtle, especially when compared with symptoms of other mental illnesses. If you feel flat emotionally or unable to connect with the people in your life, this could indicate that you need help dealing with your depression symptoms. There's no shame in seeing a therapist or psychologist, and it's an important step in getting yourself back on track.

4. Your moods are constantly changing

The type of depression that causes significant mood swings is sometimes called bipolar depression. It doesn't just affect your mood — it can affect how you think and behave as well. Mood swings can make it hard for you to connect with others or even get through the day. If you notice rapid changes in your mood, this is a strong indication you need additional support.

5. You've been through a traumatic experience

Post-traumatic stress disorder can be triggered by many different kinds of trauma, including sexual assault, natural disasters, terrorist attacks and war. If you have PTSD, your symptoms will include re-experiencing the traumatic event, avoiding places or objects that remind you of the event and having difficulty sleeping and concentrating.

If you think you might be suffering from any of these issues, it's essential to seek support from a mental health professional. A psychologist will be able to explore your symptoms and current mental state before offering a range of treatments. Depression can be treated using therapy and medication if it is diagnosed early. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you need it.

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