If youre reading this article, then youre likely concerned that you or a loved one may be exhibiting symptoms of depression . Its not an isolated experience: Mental health issues have been on the rise , especially since the onset of the pandemic.

While depression affects each person differently, there are some common hallmark characteristics and they dont all look like you might expect. Not everyone who has depression is crying all the time, for example.

We asked therapists to identify those early warning signs, and to share some advice on how to seek help if you spot them.

1. Your energy is low

A decrease in energy can be associated with other conditions, like insomnia or a common cold. However, if you notice fatigue that remains persistent without other physical symptoms, then it may be a sign youre developing depression.

Mary Tate, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of Tate Psychotherapy , said this is one of the most conspicuous symptoms in the beginning stages. For many people, high levels of fatigue and low energy are often the most noticeable, Tate said. Depression can affect our sleep patterns and increase stress, which affect serotonin and dopamine, which play a critical part in regulating our mood and energy.

2. You cant seem to focus

Some people have a hard time focusing in general, whether thats because TikTok is a click away or theyre not able to switch their mind off of work. Whatever the case may be, having difficulty focusing can be an early warning sign of depression.

Depression affects behavior activation and this is how we all get things done throughout our day, Tate said. Small tasks such as brushing your teeth and putting clean clothes on may feel like monstrous tasks.

Other tasks that may seem difficult to concentrate on can include reading a book, getting homework done or paying attention in a meeting.

3. Youre more anxious than normal

Anxiety is normal, and can even help us to get things done. However, too much of it can be debilitating.

Depression is often accompanied by anxiety and vice versa, said Dr. Kristin Gill, a psychiatrist and chief medical officer at Minded , an online psychiatry company designed for women. Symptoms that are commonly seen in both anxiety and depression include difficulty concentrating, sleep problems and fatigue. It is also important to note that women are twice as likely to develop both depression and anxiety compared to men.

Because anxiety and depression have overlapping symptoms, it is important to discuss your symptoms with a health care professional to determine whether you are suffering from depression or anxiety, or both, as this will inform recommendations for treatment, Gill said.

4. Youre isolating yourself socially

If youve been turning down invites to grab drinks with friends after work or you dont feel like going to your weekly book club meeting, it may be because youre developing depression.

Depression can affect ones ability to nurture themselves, let alone a relationship, Tate said. A person may notice reduced libido, negative attitude and self-isolation.

This isolation can weaken relationships and friendships, which in turn may fuel depressive feelings even more. Its not uncommon for other people to notice a persons symptoms of depression before the person themselves does.