In India, nearly one in five adults will experience depression during their lifetime, yet fewer than 30 % seek timely help. Because the illness creeps in gradually, most people miss the early signs of depression—or mislabel them as laziness or “just stress.” This guide equips you to recognise those subtle red flags in yourself and your circle, so you can intervene early and, if needed, connect with a qualified Soulbol psychologist or take our free Depression Test for instant screening.
Before you can spot early signs of depression, it helps to know that the disorder is more than sadness; it’s a clinical condition involving biological, psychological, and social factors. Think of it as an invisible flu of the brain—one that distorts mood, energy, and thinking. Learn the science behind depression triggers in our Depression Test results page. Learn the science behind depression triggers in our Depression Test results page.
A hallmark early sign of depression is a low mood that lingers for two weeks or more, paired with anhedonia—losing pleasure in activities you once enjoyed (Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 2022). If cricket nights or binge-watch marathons suddenly feel dull, it’s worth checking in with yourself.
Insomnia, oversleeping, bingeing on comfort food, or skipping meals entirely can each be early signs of depression. Keep a simple diary or use a fitness band to log sleep and food intake for two weeks; patterns often reveal themselves.
Feeling that your limbs are weighed down, thinking feels “foggy,” or tasks that once took minutes now drag on for hours? Chat live with a Soulbol psychologist—₹100 wallet signup credit covers your first 10 minutes.
Internal monologues like “I’m useless” or “Nothing will ever improve” often surface early. A 2024 NIMHANS study linked self-critical rumination with worsening depressive episodes. Count how often such thoughts pop up daily; frequent negativity is an early sign of depression.
Colleagues who still hit deadlines yet appear drained, irritable, or disengaged during breaks may show early signs of depression without classic absenteeism. If that’s you, set micro-break alarms and share concerns with HR or a trusted friend.
Cancelling plans, ghosting group chats, or spending entire weekends indoors can be stealth early signs of depression (Psychological Medicine, 2023). The behaviour reinforces loneliness, creating a vicious cycle. Try our Loneliness Test and get personalised coping tips plus immediate support links.
If two or more of the above early signs of depression resonate, screen yourself with evidence-based tools, open up to someone you trust, and consider professional therapy. Studies show early intervention reduces relapse by 40 %. Book an online session with licensed Soulbol clinicians—pay via wallet or UPI.
Catching depression early is like treating a cavity before it becomes a root canal: faster, less painful, and far cheaper. Keep an eye on subtle shifts—sleep, mood, energy, self-talk—and act when patterns persist. Whether it’s a quick Depression Test or a one-to-one chat, Soulbol is here 24 × 7 to guide your mental-health journey.
