Signs and Symptoms

Not everyone who is depressed experiences all the symptoms or to the same degree or length of time. Generally, if you experience five or more symptoms for two weeks or more, you could have clinical or major depression and should seek professional help.

• Persistent sadness, anxiety, or excessive crying

• Changes in appetite — decreased appetite with weight loss, or increased appetite with weight gain.

• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, stomachaches, or chronic pain.

• Irritability or restlessness

• Fatigue or decreased energy

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness

• Change in sleep patterns — sleeping too much or too little, or experiencing early-morning waking.

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable, including sex.

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

• Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts.

Source: Mental Health America