Signs of Recovering From Depression

Depression is a debilitating mental health issue that can significantly impact a person socially and occupationally. Treatment for depression includes individual therapy, family therapy, support groups and medication. Also, exercising, getting at least eight hours of sleep and eating healthfully can help reduce symptoms of depression. Depression can last for years or a period of time as short as two weeks.

A man looking out a window. (Image: NADOFOTOS/iStock/Getty Images)

Mood

People who are depressed usually feel sad or irritable most of the time. When a depression is lifting, the person probably has more days where he's not sad or irritable. It doesn't mean that he's going to be incredibly happy. It just means the pervasive sense of sadness has faded. Also, it's common for someone who's depressed to feel hopeless and worthless. Through therapy and medication, a person can realize that the future isn't hopeless. Someone recovering from depression would be able to acknowledge his positive characteristics.

Sleep and Eating Issues

Sleep issues such as not being able to sleep or sleeping too much are common symptoms of depression. Also, eating way too much or not enough are other signs of depression. Someone recovering from depression will be more likely to eat and sleep normally. This will help the person's ability to concentrate and get back to a normal weight.

Social and Occupational Differences

People who suffer from depression usually have a hard time maintaining healthy relationships and have difficulty at work due to lack of concentration. If the depression is lifting, the person might be able to make more time for friends and family and stop isolating herself. She might get and maintain a new job. When the depression is subsiding, the person is more likely to get out of bed every morning to get to work on time, to meet deadlines and to gain respect at work.

Physical Issues

Some people who suffer from depression experience psychosomatic symptoms, meaning they experience medical issues without any medical reason for the issue. They might have headaches or stomachaches on a regular basis. A person who's having psychosomatic symptoms might seek treatment from a doctor who can't find any basis for the issue. When someone is recovering from depression, the psychosomatic issues should reduce.

Suicidal Thoughts

Many times people suffering from major depression will have suicidal thoughts or even attempt to commit suicide. If someone is recovering from depression, she will no longer have those thoughts or urges. It's a huge sign of success when someone who was contemplating suicide no longer thinks about death and dying.