What are the symptoms of depression?
Everyone at one time or another has felt depressed, sad, or blue. Being depressed is a normal reaction to loss, life’s struggles, or an injured self-esteem. But sometimes the feeling of sadness becomes intense, lasting for long periods of time and preventing a person from leading a normal life. This is depression, a mental illness that—if left untreated—can worsen, lasting for years and causing untold suffering, and possibly even result in suicide. It is important to recognize the signs of depression and seek help if you or your loved one is exhibiting any of the following symptoms.
The signs and symptoms of depression include:
- Sadness
- Loss of enjoyment from things that were once pleasurable
- Loss of energy
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Uncontrollable crying
- Difficulty making decisions
- Irritability
- Insomnia or excessive sleep
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Stomachache and digestive problems
- Sexual problems (for example, decreased sex drive)
- Pains and aches (for example, headache)
- A change in appetite causing weight loss or gain
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Attempting suicide
If you or someone you know is demonstrating any of the following warning signs, contact a mental health professional right away or go to the emergency room for treatment.
- Thoughts or talk of death or suicide
- Thoughts or talk of self-harm or harm to others
- Previous attempts of suicide
- Aggressive behavior or impulsiveness
All mentions of suicide or violence must be taken seriously. If you intend or have a plan to commit suicide, go to the emergency room for immediate treatment.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 4/7/2008...index#9280
