Warning Signs of Depression

Warning Signs of Severe Depression
Depression is a common but serious disease that ranges widely in severity. If you have a milder case, you may struggle with symptoms that include sadness, irritability, anger, and fatigue that last for weeks or longer. Such depression interferes with your daily life and relationships.
But some cases of depression are more severe, with intense symptoms that may include significant appetite and weight loss, sleep problems, and frequent thoughts of death or suicide. Such depression can be paralyzing. You may isolate yourself and have trouble getting out of bed or leaving the house.
Symptoms of Severe Depression  Insomnia or excessive sleeping
Irritability
Loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable
Hopelessness
Persistent thoughts of something bad happening
Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts

• In very severe cases, psychotic symptoms (such as hallucinations or delusions)
• Inability to take care of oneself, such as eating, bathing, or fulfilling family or work responsibilities

Although you might feel that there's no hope, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Even severe depression symptoms can be treated.
Risk Factors for Suicide
Not all people with risk factors will be suicidal. In addition to depression or other mental illness, risk factors for suicide include:

• Current or history of substance abuse
• History of suicide attempt
• Family history of suicide
• Family history of mental illness or substance abuse
• Firearms in the home
• Incarceration
• Feelings of hopelessness

Suicidal Thoughts: An EmergencyFor people who are severely depressed, suicide is a real threat. Each year, about 30,000 people in the U.S. take their own lives, although the true number may be higher. Some suicides go unrecognized because they're classified as accidents, drug overdoses, or shootings. Among people whose depression remains untreated, up to 15% will kill themselves. 
What are the warning signs of suicide? According to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, they include: 

• Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill yourself
• Looking for a way to kill yourself, such as searching online for methods or buying a gun
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Displaying extreme mood swings

Getting Help
Local One is very fortunate to have access to the Actors Fund which is a human services organization. They are available for a wide range of counseling. If any member or family member needs assistance please call 212-221-7300 or visit actorsfund.org.