Early signs of depression are often passed off as normal low moods and blues. It is only when the signs of depression become more pronounced and are there for a longer period that those who are around the person will start worrying. It is necessary to recognize the early signs so that the person can be helped in the initial stages of depression. People become withdrawn and subdued when they suffer from depression. Most will avoid their normal routine and behave in a lethargic manner which could be mistaken for laziness. If an active person suddenly shows signs of slowing down care givers and relatives should pay heed to this and find out what I bothering the person.
Lack of proper sleep or too much sleep is not normal and is a sign of depression, similarly lack of appetite or over eating is a sign too. Personal hygiene is neglected and there is a lack of interest in their surroundings. There is a lack of interest in things which interested them once and the person slowly becomes a recluse avoiding socializing and meeting people. People who are depressed have a low self esteem and suffer with guilt. Sometimes these feelings are triggered off by incidents which have upset them, but if there is a deeper mental problem then it could get triggered off on its own. Signs of depression should not be neglected no matter how mild they are as without treatment the will become more acute and severe.