Symptoms of Depression

Feeling sad is a normal and healthy emotion that we all experience from time to time.  When you feel a sense of sadness, you can usually trace the cause back to a particular event or a loss of something or someone, or a regret of a missed opportunity. While you feel this sadness, you can also experience moments of happiness and the sadness eases at some point.

Depression, however, is life altering and more complicated. People experience symptoms differently, and sadness is just one component.

Other common symptoms of depression include:

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities – People with depression are no longer as interested in doing the things they used to enjoy.  They may withdraw from or lose interest in friend.

Change in appetite or weight – Appetite and weight can either decrease or increase. Some people have to force themselves to eat, while others eat more and sometimes crave specific foods (junk food and carbohydrates).

Sleeping too little or too much – Depression often disrupts sleep patterns, leading to excessive sleep or not being able to fall or stay asleep.  People with depression often say that they do not feel rested and have a hard time getting out of bed.

Restlessness or sluggishness – People with depression can feel agitated and restless or feel slowed down and sluggish.

Fatigue or loss of energy – Depression can often cause feelings of exhaustion and fatigue. Some people may feel weighted down and may have trouble starting or completing tasks.

Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt – Depression can cause people to feel guilty, inadequate, inferior, worthless, or like a failure.

Poor concentration – Some people have trouble thinking clearly, concentrating, and making decisions. They can also be easily distracted or complain of memory problems.

Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide – People who are depressed can also experience recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.