Aug 28

Scientists Sound the Alarm: COVID-19 Virus Is Rapidly Evolving in White-Tailed Deer

Research reveals that Ohio’s white-tailed deer carry the COVID-19 virus, with the virus variants evolving three times faster in deer than in humans. The implications for potential cross-species transmission in the future remain unclear. Study finds deer are virus reservoirs, promoting ongoing mutation. New research has found that white-tailed deer across Ohio have been infected with the <span class="glossaryLink" aria-describedby="tt" data-cmtooltip=" virus A virus is a tiny infectious agent that is not considered a living organism. It consists of genetic material, either DNA or RNA, that is surrounded by a protein coat called a capsid. Some viruses also have an outer envelope made up of lipids that surrounds the capsid. Viruses can infect a wide range of organisms, including humans, animals, plants, and even bacteria. They rely on host cells to replicate and multiply, hijacking the cell's machinery to make copies of themselves. This process can cause damage to the host cell and lead to various diseases, ranging from mild to severe. Common viral infections include the flu, colds, HIV, and COVID-19. Vaccines and antiviral medications can help prevent and treat viral infections. ” data-gt-translate-attributes=”[{“attribute”:”data-cmtooltip”, “format”:”html”}]”>virus that causes <span class="glossaryLink" aria-describedby="tt" data-cmtooltip=" COVID-19 First identified in 2019 in Wuhan, China, COVID-19, or Coronavirus disease 2019, (which was originally called "2019 novel coronavirus" or 2019-nCoV) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It has spread globally, resulting in the 2019–22 coronavirus pandemic. ” data-gt-translate-attributes=”[{“attribute”:”data-cmtooltip”, “format”:”html”}]”>COVID-19. Alarmingly, the results also show that viral variants evolve about three times faster in deer than in humans. Scientists collected 1,522 nasal swabs from free-ranging deer in 83 of the state’s 88 counties between November 2021 and March 2022. More than 10% of the samples were positive for the <span class="glossaryLink" aria-describedby="tt" data-cmtooltip=" SARS-CoV-2 Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the official name of the virus strain that causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Previous to this name being adopted, it was commonly referred to as the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), the Wuhan coronavirus, or the Wuhan virus. ” data-gt-translate-attributes=”[{“attribute”:”data-cmtooltip”, “format”:”html”}]”>SARS-CoV-2 virus, and at least one positive case was found in 59% of the counties in which testing took place. Genomic Analysis and Findings Genomic analysis showed that at least 30 infections in deer had been introduced by humans – a figure that surprised the research team. “We generally talk about interspecies transmission as a rare event, but this wasn’t a huge sampling, and we’re able to document 30 spillovers. It seems to be moving between people and animals quite easily,” said Andrew Bowman, associate professor of veterinary preventive medicine at The Ohio State University and co-senior author of the study. “And the evidence is growing that humans can get it from deer – which isn’t radically surprising. It’s probably not a one-way pipeline.” The combined findings suggest that the white-tailed deer <span class="glossaryLink" aria-describedby="tt" data-cmtooltip=" species A species is a group of living organisms that share a set of common characteristics and are able to breed and produce fertile offspring. The concept of a species is important in biology as it is used to classify and organize the diversity of life. There are different ways to define a species, but the most widely accepted one is the biological species concept, which defines a species as a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce viable offspring in nature. This definition is widely used in evolutionary biology and ecology to identify and classify living organisms. ” data-gt-translate-attributes=”[{“attribute”:”data-cmtooltip”, “format”:”html”}]”>species is a reservoir for SARS-CoV-2 that enables continuing mutation, and that the virus’s circulation in deer could lead to its spread to other wildlife and livestock. The study is published today (August 28, 2023) in the journal <span class="glossaryLink" aria-describedby="tt" data-cmtooltip=" Nature Communications <em>Nature Communications</em> is a peer-reviewed, open-access, multidisciplinary, scientific journal published by Nature Portfolio. It covers the natural sciences, including physics, biology, chemistry, medicine, and earth sciences. It began publishing in 2010 and has editorial offices in London, Berlin, New York City, and Shanghai.  ” data-gt-translate-attributes=”[{“attribute”:”data-cmtooltip”, “format”:”html”}]”>Nature Communications. Previous Observations and Expansions Bowman and colleagues previously reported detection of SARS-CoV-2 infections in white-tailed deer in nine Ohio locations in December 2021, and are continuing to monitor deer for infection by more recent variants. “We expanded across Ohio to see if this was a localized problem – and we find it in lots of places, so it’s not just a localized event,” Bowman said. “Some of the thought back then was that maybe it’s just in urban deer because they’re in closer contact with people. But in rural parts of the state, we’re finding plenty of positive deer.” Beyond the detection of active infections, researchers also found through blood samples containing antibodies – indicating previous exposure to the virus – that an estimated 23.5% of deer in Ohio had been infected at one time or another. Variant Analysis The 80 whole-genome sequences obtained from the collected samples represented groups of various viral variants: the highly contagious delta variant, the predominant human strain in the United States in the early fall of 2021 that accounted for almost 90% of the sequences, and alpha, the first named variant of concern that had circulated in humans in the spring of 2021. The analysis revealed that the genetic composition of delta variants in deer matched dominant lineages found in humans at the time, pointing to the spillover events, and that deer-to-deer transmission followed in clusters, some spanning multiple counties. “There’s probably a timing component to what we found – we were near the end of a delta peak in humans, and then we see a lot of delta in deer,” Bowman said. “But we were well past the last alpha detection in humans. So the idea that deer are holding onto lineages that have since gone extinct in humans is something we were worried about.” The study did suggest that COVID-19 vaccination is likely to help protect people against severe disease in the event of a spillover back to humans. An analysis of the

Aug 28

Latest Covid Twist: Coronavirus Is Spreading In Deer, Study Finds—And Many Are Getting It From Humans

Topline Researchers have discovered dozens of white-tailed deer infected with the virus that causes Covid-19 in Ohio, suggesting that spillover of the virus between humans and animals is less rare than previously believed, according to a study published Monday in the journal Nature Communications—news that comes as doctors are tracking a new Covid-19 variant in humans. Key Facts Scientists collected 1,522 nasal swabs from free-ranging deer in 83 of Ohio’s 88 counties between November 2021 and March 2022, tested those swabs and found more than 10% of the samples were infected with coronavirus, according to the study. Additionally, the researchers found, by analyzing the genetic material of the virus, that at least 30 of those infections had been introduced to the deer by humans. They also found, by examining blood samples to detect antibodies that would indicate previous exposure to coronavirus, that an estimated 23.5% of deer in Ohio had been infected with the virus at one point in time. Researchers said they’d initially thought the infections would be mostly limited to deer living in urban parts of the state that have lots of contact with people, but at least one positive case was found in a deer in 59% of the counties in which testing took place, many of which were rural. Andrew Bowman, co-senior author of the study and an associate professor of veterinary preventive medicine at Ohio State University, said that this is “probably not a one-way pipeline” and that “the evidence is growing that humans can get it from deer” too, though the study did suggest that the Covid-19 vaccines helps protect against spillover of the virus from deer to humans. The researchers said their findings suggest the white-tailed deer serves as a “reservoir” for coronavirus and that the virus can both mutate quicker in deer, but also that strains of the virus—like the original alpha strain that began the Covid-19 pandemic or the delta strain which was largely replaced by the omicron strain in late 2021—are surviving in deer populations, despite no longer being seen in humans. What To Watch For How the virus might spread among other animals. The researchers said their findings suggest the virus could spread from deer to other wildlife or to livestock. More research might be needed to determine exactly whether this is happening. Tangent This news comes as doctors are tracking a new variant of coronavirus in humans: BA.2.86. Doctors have discovered this new highly mutated strain of Covid-19 in the U.S., Switzerland, South Africa, Israel, Denmark and the U.K., Reuters reported. It’s an offshoot of the omicron variant, but it has 35 mutations compared to XBB.1.5, which has been the dominant variant of Covid-19 through most of 2023. That’s a similar amount of mutations that the omicron variant had when it emerged in late 2021 and spurred a massive wave of infections. However, a dozen scientists around the world told Reuters that while it’s important to monitor BA.2.86, this new strain is unlikely to cause a similarly devastating wave because of the large immune defenses people around the world have built up from vaccines and prior infection. Further Reading COVID-19 virus is evolving rapidly in white-tailed deer (Nature Communications)

Aug 28

Why People Die by Suicide and How To Prevent It From Happening?

Suicide stands among the top 10 leading causes of mortality in the United States, a sobering statistic that translates to one life lost every 11 minutes. Yet, the realm of suicidal ideation, encompassing the haunting presence of thoughts and impulses driving one towards self-destruction, extends even further. While annual suicides tally in the tens of thousands, it’s essential to recognize that millions more grapple with the darkness of suicidal contemplation, planning, or survival after an attempt. Delving into the intricate web of motivations underlying suicide and suicidal ideation is a multifaceted endeavor. While understanding the “why” behind these tragic experiences represents just one facet of a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention, it serves as a critical cornerstone. By comprehending these underlying factors, we can foster a more compassionate response to those enduring suicidal thoughts, extend solace to those bereaved by suicide, and gain a deeper empathy for the anguish woven into the fabric of suicidality itself. Why We Don’t Say ‘Commit’ Suicide Our choice of language when discussing suicide carries profound implications. An illustrative instance lies in the transition away from using the term “committed suicide,” which, although previously common, now faces criticism from experts. Instead, they advocate for more neutral expressions like “died by suicide” or “took their own life.” This shift recognizes that employing “committed” in this context can perpetuate stigma, unjustly attaching a criminal connotation to the act of dying by suicide. Likewise, it’s imperative to abandon phrasings like “successful” or “unsuccessful” when referring to suicide attempts. Surviving a suicide attempt isn’t a measure of failure, just as dying by suicide isn’t an accomplishment. Using straightforward terms, such as stating whether the individual died or survived following an attempt, reframes the conversation with accuracy and sensitivity. When addressing a person’s suicide, another crucial guideline involves refraining from divulging specifics regarding the method employed, such as the exact manner of death. Sharing these details has been linked to the concerning phenomenon of suicide contagion, wherein one suicide can trigger a chain reaction of further suicides. Recognizing the potential implications, it is advisable to exercise caution and mindfulness when discussing the circumstances surrounding suicide. Being At Risk for Suicide The intricate nature of suicide lies in its multi-faceted composition, where no single determinant can reliably predict who will ultimately succumb to it. Nonetheless, discerning potential indicators of suicidal ideation and implementing screenings can illuminate the risk landscape with more clarity. It’s vital to debunk the misconception that suicide stems from weakness, a character flaw, or selfishness. Such stigmatized attributions only perpetuate misunderstanding and may deter individuals grappling with suicidal thoughts from seeking help. Instead, the intricate tapestry leading to suicide typically weaves biological, environmental, and social threads, rendering the affected individual more susceptible to thoughts of self-harm. Among the factors at play, some are noteworthy, including the experience of a family member’s suicide, ready access to means capable of causing harm, and the societal stigma encircling mental health struggles that may hinder seeking assistance. The exploration of suicide and its prevention remains an evolving journey, necessitating ongoing research to unearth its intricacies and potential strategies for averting its devastating outcomes. As our understanding deepens, additional factors may come to light, further enriching our grasp of this complex issue. Reasons People Choose This Unraveling the precise motives behind a suicide death is often an intricate endeavor. However, by listening to the narratives of individuals who have battled suicidal ideation or made suicide attempts, we gain a glimpse into the complex web of factors that contributed to their distress. Here are the insights we’ve gleaned: Mental Illness The interplay between mental illness and suicide risk is a nuanced landscape, defying easy categorization. This intricate dynamic becomes clearer when we examine how mental illness intersects with an individual’s overall quality of life. Within this context, several pathways through which mental illness can contribute to suicidal tendencies emerge: 1. Disparities in Access to Mental Health Care: Unequal availability of mental health care and treatment can exacerbate the risk of suicide for those struggling with mental illness. Limited access can hinder timely intervention and support. 2. Social Isolation and Lack of Support: Feeling socially disconnected or devoid of a reliable support network can magnify vulnerability to suicidal thoughts. A sense of isolation can amplify distress, creating a fertile ground for despair. 3. Isolation and Loneliness: The emotional burden of isolation, loneliness, or being misunderstood can culminate in a heightened risk of suicide. The absence of meaningful connections may intensify the struggle. 4. Struggles in Maintaining Relationships: Challenges in sustaining relationships due to mental health issues can contribute to the perception of isolation and fuel suicidal tendencies. 5. Impacted Quality of Life: Diminished quality of life resulting from amplified stressors, such as the inability to maintain employment due to mental health challenges, can further exacerbate vulnerability to suicide. 6. Impulsivity and Borderline Personality Disorder: Some mental health conditions, like borderline personality disorder, may be characterized by heightened impulsivity, amplifying the risk of impulsive actions, including self-harm. 7. Varied Mental Health Conditions: While conditions like depression and substance use disorder are often linked to suicide risk, other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and personality disorders can also elevate the likelihood of suicidal tendencies. In essence, the relationship between mental illness and suicide is intricate, often influenced by a cascade of interconnected factors that shape an individual’s emotional landscape and overall well-being. Recognizing this complexity underscores the significance of comprehensive mental health support, destigmatizing conversations, and fostering a society where those struggling receive the care and understanding they deserve. History of Trauma The impact of trauma can reverberate significantly regardless of one’s age, but childhood trauma emerges as a particularly potent long-term precursor to suicide risk.4 Childhood trauma encompasses a range of distressing experiences, such as emotional neglect, physical abuse, parental loss, sexual assault, and bullying. Disturbingly, these risk factors accumulate, magnifying the likelihood of suicide attempts with each traumatic life event endured. The repercussions of trauma aren’t confined to their initial

Aug 28

Dengue outbreaks: 9 reasons why dengue cases are getting more severe; what role does global warming play

ByParmita Uniyal, New Delhi Aug 28, 2023 01:54 PM IST Share Via Copy Link The researchers of a study found that global warming could be possibly changing the disease dynamics of dengue. Mosquito-borne infections are rising across the globe. The cases of dengue and chikungunya are expected to witness a surge in Europe too due to climate change European Union officials said. In Delhi and other parts of the country, dengue cases have reached a 5-year high and severe strains are said to be in circulation which is adding to people’s woes. Floods and waterlogging could also be contributing to this situation as per experts. (Also read: Dengue surge: Mild to dangerous, common signs and symptoms of different dengue strains) Dengue is the most common viral infection that is caused due to mosquito bites. In recent times, there has been a growing concern over the severity of the dengue virus and its implications for public health. (Freepik) New research at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology and published in The Federation of American Societies of Experimental Biology has found out that dengue becomes more severe in animal models when its virus is exposed to higher temperature. It is because viruses can replicate faster when exposed to warmer temperatures and can be spread to humans more quickly. The researchers of the study also observed that global warming could be possibly changing the disease dynamics. While dengue symptoms continue to be mild in most people, in many others it can be fatal. “With the onset of monsoon, viral infections are on a constant rise among different age groups. Among these, dengue is the most common viral infection that is caused due to mosquito bites. In recent times, there has been a growing concern over the severity of the dengue virus and its implications for public health. Therefore, it is important to understand the various factors for timely intervention,” says Dr. Vinay Bhat, Consultant – Internal Medicine, Manipal Hospital, Ghaziabad. “The severity of dengue virus infections is influenced by multiple factors, with global warming playing a significant role in creating conducive conditions for mosquito breeding, viral replication, and altered transmission dynamics. Efforts to mitigate the impact of dengue and other vector-borne diseases should include addressing the climate change-related factors that contribute to their spread,” says Dr. Ather Pasha – Consultant, General Medicine, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. There are several factors that contribute to the increasing severity of dengue, with global warming playing a significant role. Some of the major ones include: Reasons why dengue severity is on rise Viral strains Different strains of the dengue virus exist, with some being more virulent than others. Co-circulation of multiple strains can lead to more severe cases due to the phenomenon known as antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), where exposure to one strain increases the risk of severe disease upon subsequent infection with another strain. Weak immune responses In some cases, a history of dengue infection can weaken the immune system’s response, making individuals more susceptible to severe forms of the virus upon subsequent infections. Delayed diagnosis and treatment Late diagnosis and inadequate medical care can contribute to the progression of dengue to its severe forms, such as dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Water stagnation This is one of the major contributing factors of dengue. It provides a conducive environment for the breeding of the primary vector mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes thrive in urban and semi-urban environments and are responsible for transmitting the dengue virus to humans. “The severity of dengue virus infections can be influenced by a variety of factors, and global warming is indeed playing a role in exacerbating some of these factors,” says Dr Pasha. Dr Pasha shares reasons why dengue virus is turning severe and how global warming is contributing: Vector proliferation Dengue is primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, especially Aedes aegypti. Warmer temperatures and increased humidity due to global warming create more favourable conditions for these mosquitoes to breed and thrive, leading to a higher population of vectors capable of spreading the virus. Increased transmission window Warmer climates extend the lifespan and activity period of mosquitoes, allowing them to transmit the virus for a longer duration throughout the year. This prolonged transmission window can result in a higher number of cases. Altered mosquito behaviour Global warming can affect the behaviour of Aedes mosquitoes, making them more aggressive in seeking blood meals, which can lead to an increase in human-mosquito contact and subsequent transmission of the virus. Expanded geographic range Warmer temperatures allow Aedes mosquitoes to thrive in areas that were previously too cold for them. This expansion of their range exposes new populations to the virus, potentially leading to more severe outbreaks. Limited resources Many regions facing dengue outbreaks are also vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Limited resources to address both health infrastructure and climate-related challenges can exacerbate the severity of outbreaks. Role of global warming Global warming, driven by climate change, plays a pivotal role in exacerbating the severity of dengue fever. Dr Bhat shares some of the reasons: Extended mosquito breeding seasons: Warmer temperatures extend the breeding seasons of Aedes mosquitoes, increasing their population density and the rate of dengue virus transmission. Faster virus replication: Elevated temperatures enhance the replication of the dengue virus within mosquitoes, leading to higher viral loads and a greater potential for transmission to humans. Expanded geographical range: Rising temperatures allow Aedes mosquitoes to thrive in regions that were previously unsuitable for their survival, exposing new populations to dengue transmission. Altered mosquito behaviour: Warmer temperatures can affect the behaviour of Aedes mosquitoes, making them more aggressive and likely to bite multiple times, increasing the risk of virus transmission. Heavy rainfall: Climate change can lead to increased rainfall and more frequent extreme weather events, creating stagnant water bodies that serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes. “The intertwining of these factors creates a complex scenario where the severity of the dengue virus is amplified. Addressing this challenge

Aug 28

‘Election Stress Disorder’ Is Real—Here’s the Causes, Signs, and Coping Mechanisms You Can Use

People on both sides of the political divide are feeling tense, anxious, and overwhelmed right now. By this juncture, we find ourselves navigating a global pandemic that has persisted for over six months. While grappling with the challenges posed by the Covid-19 situation, individuals have likely developed strategies to cope with the associated anxieties. However, an additional factor is at play—an ongoing presidential election that has served to polarize families and communities, arguably generating more intense anger and frustration than previous electoral cycles. This has led individuals to express their emotions on various social media platforms, using them as outlets to convey their heightened agitation over the election and its preceding events. Various individuals have shared their sentiments, with one person noting, “The stress from the election has turned me into a culinary enthusiast,” while another lamented, “I wish my body didn’t react to stress in this manner.” Expressions like, “This current presidential election is wreaking havoc on my well-being,” further underscore the emotional toll. In recent times, the term “election stress disorder” has emerged to encapsulate the prevailing sentiment surrounding the impending election. However, it is crucial to delve into the concept’s specifics and determine whether “election stress disorder” holds a credible standing as a medical diagnosis. Presented below is essential information to illuminate this matter. Where Did the Term ‘Election Stress Disorder’ Come From? The origins of the term can be traced back to 2016 when Steven Stosny, PhD, a psychologist renowned for his work on compassion, anger, and relationships, introduced it to the public discourse. Stosny employed this term within an article published in The Washington Post. Within the article, he revealed his own experiences of being “overwhelmed” by an influx of “distress calls” from his patients during the 2016 election cycle. He pointed out that the ceaseless stream of election-related news was not only inducing stress in his patients but was also encroaching upon their personal lives. Subsequently, the term gained traction and found resonance among other individuals. Its usage has become more commonplace, particularly gaining momentum when the intensity of the 2020 election escalated as autumn set in. What Is Election Stress Disorder? It’s important to clarify that “election stress disorder” is not a formally recognized medical diagnosis. Nevertheless, individuals can certainly experience significant levels of stress surrounding elections, particularly those with high stakes. Monifa Seawell, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist based in Atlanta, emphasizes that elections are pivotal events with far-reaching consequences, impacting not only immediate communities but also states and the nation as a whole. Driven by these implications, the intensity of emotions can escalate. The current election has been marked by its notably intense nature. Thea Gallagher, PsyD, who serves as the clinic director at the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perlman School of Medicine, points out the prevalence of negative themes, including personal attacks and an overarching atmosphere of negativity. Tuning out such influences becomes challenging. The precedent for this heightened election-related stress exists. Findings from the 2016 Stress in America survey, conducted by the American Psychological Association, revealed that 52% of Americans considered the 2016 presidential election a “very” or “somewhat significant” source of stress in their lives. Evidently, a similar level of stress has resurfaced. Dr. Gallagher notes that this sentiment is increasingly manifesting on social media, with instances of friends and family members drawing relational lines based on voting choices. This social dynamic can indeed become overwhelming. In this election, the political landscape has demonstrated an unprecedented level of polarization, according to Craig A. Smith, PhD, an associate professor of psychology and human development at Vanderbilt University. The adversarial nature between the two sides, coupled with the tendency to vilify opposing positions and leadership, contributes to the perception of an essential cultural clash. Dr. Smith contends that viewing the election as a critical battle in this cultural divide can lead to heightened stress due to its potential impacts on daily life, livelihood, and core values. As such, the election’s potential outcomes can evoke extreme stress. What Does Election Stress Disorder Look Like? Stress stemming from the election can manifest in individuals much like stress arising from any other source, as Dr. Seawell explains: “It can disrupt your regular routine and create a sense of imbalance.” This disruption may lead to sleep difficulties, triggered by concerns over debate discussions, or a sense of mental preoccupation driven by election-related news. Dr. Seawell notes that election-related stress could materialize as an apprehension of missing out on the latest updates, potentially prompting frequent checks for news alerts on your phone. Dr. Gallagher underscores that this stress could also manifest as heightened irritability and moodiness. She further highlights that individuals might experience anxiety when interacting with people holding differing political viewpoints, due to concerns about sensitive topics arising in conversation. How To Cope With Election Stress Disorder Addressing this situation can be approached in several ways. According to Dr. Smith, one approach is to take proactive steps to contribute to the desired outcome of the election. This might entail volunteering for causes aligned with your values, participating in campaigns for your preferred candidate, or engaging with organizations that promote voter engagement. While pursuing these actions, it’s crucial not to disregard the broader aspects of your life. Dr. Seawell advises finding a harmonious balance between active political involvement and maintaining a diversified lifestyle that encompasses various interests and activities. A second strategy involves consciously taking breaks when you sense that election-related news or discussions are becoming overwhelming. Dr. Smith suggests disconnecting from the news cycle and engaging in activities such as spending time with loved ones (virtually or in person), indulging in non-political reading, or watching a movie. Dr. Gallagher recommends refraining from getting involved in online arguments on platforms like Facebook or Twitter, as these exchanges can often be fraught with negativity due to the anonymity factor. She suggests actively avoiding such stress-inducing interactions to preserve your mental well-being. In the grand scheme of things,

Aug 28

How To Know if You’re Depressed

Experts explain how to know when feeling blue has crossed over into full-blown depression. Experiencing occasional moments of feeling down is a normal part of life. However, when a persistent and overwhelming sense of sadness or hopelessness disrupts your daily activities, it could be a sign of clinical depression. Based on data from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) in 2020, 8.4% of adults aged 18 and older in the U.S. experienced a major depressive episode. Identifying depression can be challenging as many of its symptoms are commonly experienced by people at various times. Dr. Jennifer Payne, the director of the Women’s Mood Disorders Center at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, explains that most of the symptoms of depression must be consistently present every day, almost all day, for at least two weeks, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). One of the key symptoms that must be present is a persistent depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities. If you suspect that you may be dealing with depression, it is important to seek help and talk to your healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and support. You’re Eating More (or Less) Than Usual Depression often leads to feelings of withdrawal and disconnection, which can have varying effects on appetite. According to Dr. Yvonne Thomas, a Los Angeles-based psychologist specializing in depression and self-esteem, being preoccupied with negative thoughts can cause a loss of interest in eating or preparing meals. This withdrawal may result in forgetting to eat or experiencing a reduced appetite. On the other hand, depression can sometimes lead to overeating as a coping mechanism. The mix of emotions that typically accompany depression, such as sadness, pessimism, and low self-esteem, may drive individuals to seek comfort or relief through food binges. In both cases, the relationship between depression and appetite can be complex and individualized. Seeking professional help and support is essential for addressing the underlying issues and finding healthier coping strategies to manage the impact of depression on eating behaviors. You’re Sleeping Too Much or Too Little Depression can affect sleep patterns in different ways, leading to either increased or decreased sleep. Some individuals with depression may find themselves sleeping more as a way to escape from their sadness and feelings of disengagement. The lack of energy that accompanies depression can make them feel tired all the time, and sleeping becomes a refuge from their emotional struggles. On the other hand, some people with depression experience restless or interrupted sleep, or even insomnia. The constant presence of obsessive thoughts or ruminations can prevent them from winding down and getting the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep that most adults need. Changes in sleep patterns can serve as a potential indicator of depression, but they can also exacerbate the condition. When sleep is disrupted or inadequate, it can throw off the body’s internal clock, leading to increased tiredness, lack of focus, and diminished coping abilities, further worsening the effects of depression. Recognizing the relationship between depression and sleep is crucial, as addressing sleep disturbances can be an important aspect of managing depression effectively. Seeking professional help and support can provide guidance in developing healthy sleep habits and implementing strategies to improve both sleep quality and overall mental well-being. Small Things Agitate You Depression can manifest in subtle ways, and one often overlooked sign is heightened irritability, as noted by Dr. Jennifer Wolkin, a health psychologist based in New York. If you are experiencing depression, you might find yourself feeling grumpy or easily annoyed by things that wouldn’t normally bother you. You might catch yourself snapping at friends and coworkers over minor issues. This increased irritability can be triggered by the weight of numerous heavy emotions that come with depression. Dr. Yvonne Thomas, a psychologist, compares the psychological pain of depression to physical pain, explaining that both can lead to increased anger and irritability. When you don’t feel like your usual self and are burdened by emotional distress, it can diminish your patience and put you on edge, making you more susceptible to irritability. Recognizing irritability as a potential sign of depression is essential, as addressing the underlying emotional struggles can help improve mood and overall well-being. Seeking professional support and therapy can be beneficial in managing and coping with depression and its various manifestations. You Can’t Concentrate or Focus Experiencing forgetfulness about work deadlines or important commitments, such as picking up your kids from a playdate, and feeling as if your mind is in a constant state of haziness or out-of-focus can be indicative of depression. Dr. Jennifer Wolkin, a health psychologist, explains that being consumed by thoughts of sadness and emptiness can lead to a cognitive fog that significantly impacts your job performance, memory, and ability to make sound decisions. This mental fog can cause you to make poor choices or engage in unhealthy and risky behaviors. It’s crucial to recognize these cognitive effects of depression and seek professional help and support to address the underlying emotional struggles. By addressing depression, you may find that your mental clarity and decision-making abilities improve, allowing you to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life. You Don’t Enjoy the Things That Once Made You Happy Experiencing a loss of interest in activities and hobbies that once brought joy and fulfillment is a common indicator of depression. Dr. Jennifer Wolkin explains that feeling down or sad might cause someone to skip a few outings, but with depression, you become apathetic about the activities and pastimes that previously gave you pleasure. This loss of interest can lead to isolating yourself from social engagements and hobbies. Depression sets up a vicious cycle where it diminishes your ability to derive happiness from experiences, causing you to withdraw from the very activities that could potentially brighten your mood. This cycle of disinterest and isolation further exacerbates the impact of depression on your overall well-being. Recognizing the loss of enjoyment in once-enjoyed activities