What are the signs and symptoms of depression?
Depression is not uniform. Signs and symptoms may be experienced by some sufferers and not by others. How severe the symptoms are, and how long they last depends on the individual person and his illness. Below is a list of the most common symptoms:
A constant feeling of sadness, anxiety, and emptiness
A general feeling of pessimism sets in (the glass is always half empty)
The person feels hopeless
Individuals can feel restless
The sufferer may experience irritability
Patients may lose interest in activities or hobbies they once enjoyed
He/she may lose interest in sex
Levels of energy feel lower, fatigue sets in
Many people with a depressive illness find it hard to concentrate, remember details, and make decisions
Sleep patterns are disturbed - the person may sleep too little or too much
Eating habits may change - he/she may either eat too much or have no appetite
Suicidal thoughts may occur - some may act on those thoughts
The sufferer may complain more of aches and pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems. These problems do not get better with treatment.