Signs & Symptoms of Depression

Everyone gets the blues or feels down sometime, but these feelings normally pass.  However, if these feelings linger for no apparent reason, you may be depressed. Depression is a clinical medical disorder and can become a major hindrance on one’s life if it is not addressed and treated properly. By knowing the signs and symptoms, you will be able to recognize if you or a loved one is depressed.

• Feelings of sadness, unhappiness, or frustration may be felt. These feelings may be felt for no apparent reason or may be an exaggerated reaction to a small event.


• Sleep patterns can change, resulting in insomnia or excessive sleeping, depending upon the person.


• Changes in appetite such as eating too much or too little can also occur. This can result in weight gain or loss in the depressed person.


• The ability to make decisions may be impacted, and things that once seemed easy to decide may now seem like very difficult choices.


• Thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or death may occur.


• Fatigue and having no energy are common in depressed people; even if sleep is occurring, the smallest tasks can seem to be the biggest chores.


• Memory may be interrupted and it may be difficult to concentrate.


• Depressed people are prone to crying outbursts for no apparent reason and may suffer from headaches, digestive problems, and aches and pains.


• Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and hatred toward oneself may occur during depression, fixating on failures from the past and on personal flaws.


• Depressed people may withdraw from their lives, avoiding social situations and activities they previously enjoyed.


• A decrease in sex drive may be experienced.


• Depression can also present as anger and discouragement rather than sadness. 

Note that depression can be a serious problem. If you are feeling thoughts of suicide or know someone who is, get help immediately. Contact a family member or a friend, visit your doctor, or call the suicide hotline number. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255) is staffed 24 hours a day by trained counselors.