Detecting signs of depression early is crucial to prevent such episodes in the future. Without diagnosis and treatment, a person can go through frequent and severe episodes. However, there is much better awareness and lesser stigma associated with depression. Nevertheless, every individual must receive training to detect signs of depression, as it can save precious lives within the family or their community. But before starting treatment, one must know the signs and causes in detail.

Signs of depression
Depression refers to a mood disorder where a person feels sad, gloomy, and moody and shows no signs of interest or pleasure in doing things they once enjoyed. Identifying the symptoms early can pave the way for early treatment. Mild, moderate, or severe depression can be cured with proper treatment. Symptoms of depression can appear as one or more symptoms or occur in a pattern and can last for a day, week, or, in severe cases, for months.

Early warning signs and symptoms of depression include:

• Sadness without any apparent cause or explanation
• Crying without an apparent cause or explanation
• Mild or severe negativity
• Pessimism
• Disrupted sleep or inadequate sleep
• Anxiety
• Guilt
• Feeling unworthy and hopeless
• Lack of interest in regular activities related to school or work
• Lack of appetite or binge eating
• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
• Long spells of silence
• Slowing down of movements
• Absentmindedness
• Lack of concentration
• Thoughts, conversations, and attempts towards self-harm or suicide

Depression quiz
If a person notices such symptoms in themselves or any of their family members, they can check if they have signs of depression using online depression quizzes and tests. These are self-assessment tests designed by leading psychiatrists who have credible experience in treating patients with depression. The depression quiz is not a diagnostic tool but guides one to the right mental health professionals and resources.
Many depression tests and quizzes are available online and in offices of local hospitals and clinics. A depression quiz lists multiple questions, and based on the user’s responses, a professional healthcare expert then assesses a person’s mental status. The user’s response is confidential, and they can take these tests periodically to check if their mood has improved or worsened. They can reach out to healthcare professionals or other counselors listed in such depression quizzes and tests. Suppose the assessor feels that a person shows signs of depression; in that case, they can reach out to the patient and provide professional counseling and educate them about various mental health professionals.

Causes
Depression is categorized into four major types based on the types of symptoms, its intensity, and the duration of symptoms. Doctors do not associate any specific cause for depression, but research shows that some factors are more likely to lead to depression across age and gender. Some of the causes of depression include:

Genetics
Genes can increase the risk of depression by about 40%, particularly if a biological parent has it. If a person with such background goes through stressful live events, the risk of depression increases further.

Personality
An individual’s personality is a significant cause of depression. A shy or anxious person may internalize their insecurities and feel depressed and sad. A person with low self-esteem and who feels worthless may develop depression. Those who are perfectionists or sensitive may find it challenging to communicate with others and could feel sad and develop depression.

Changes in the brain related to aging
As we grow, our brain begins to shrink. Some neurons begin to die or get damaged. This can cause mood changes in seniors, eventually leading to depression.

Disruptions in the brain chemical
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that aid in sending and receiving signals. Three such neurotransmitters that regulate mood include dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline. If these neurotransmitters do not function properly, or if there are fluctuations in their levels, it can affect mood and eventually lead to depression.

Preexisting illnesses
A person who is unwell and has been diagnosed with chronic or life-threatening illnesses can go into depression as their interest in life may decline. They could be overwhelmed by the impact of the disease, the cost of long-term treatment, and the side effects of treatments.

Cardiovascular diseases
The brain may receive inadequate blood, oxygen, and nutrients if a person has hypertension or stroke. Conversely, those who have severe depression or anxiety are at a higher risk of a heart attack.

Psychological factors
Those who grow up in tough environments and have gone through trauma or lack of emotional support are likely to develop depression in adulthood. Those who have either witnessed or experienced stressful events can also develop depression. On the other hand, those who may not conform to existing societal norms and preferences may feel isolated and lonely and develop depression. A person who feels too much guilt due to failure or who may feel responsible for every problem around them can also develop depression.