Signs of Depression
People with depressive illnesses do not all experience the same symptoms. The severity, frequency and duration of symptoms will vary depending on the individual and his or her particular illness.
Signs of depression include:
- Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” feelings
- Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
- Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
- Loss of appetite and/or weight loss, or conversely overeating and weight gain
- Decreased energy, fatigue, feeling “slowed down” or sluggish
- Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts
With the exception of suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts, symptoms must persist for at least two weeks before being considered a potential sign of depression.
Once diagnosed, a person with depression can be treated with a number of methods. The most common treatments are psychotherapy and medication. Read more on Treatments for Depression »
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