Depression Signs and Symptoms
Overview
We all have bad days, but depression is more than just feeling sad or stressed sometimes. You might be experiencing depression if you have the following symptoms nearly every day for at least two weeks, or if these symptoms interfere with your ability to function:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or empty mood
- Loss of interest or enjoyment in hobbies or activities
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Extreme irritability or anger
- Restlessness or anxiety
- Fixation on the past or things that have gone wrong
- Feelings of guilt, helplessness, or worthlessness
- Lack of energy, fatigue, or feeling slowed down
- Problems concentrating, making decisions, or remembering
- Problems sleeping, waking up too early, or oversleeping
- Changes in your diet or weight
- Sensitivity to rejection
- Persistent physical problems, like muscle pain or headaches
- Thoughts of death or suicide
You might not experience all of these symptoms, and some might be worse than others. But if you experience suicidal thoughts or attempts, seek help immediately – don’t wait two weeks.
It’s also possible to experience depression along with other mental or behavioral health challenges, sometimes called “co-occurring disorders.” Some examples of these are anxiety, eating disorders, and alcohol and drug abuse. Talk with your doctor or mental health specialist about all aspects of your health. Although these issues might seem unrelated, they can contribute to your depression or affect your treatment.
If you or someone you care about might be experiencing depression, it’s important to remember that depression is an illness like any other. Taking the first step of asking for help is something to be proud of.
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