DEPRESSION: Signs and symptoms

These are just some of the signs and symptoms of DEPRESSION, but each person is different.

• Persistent sad feelings or a mood, low, gloomy for no explanation. Crying spells.
• A lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed, such as socializing with family and friends.
• Thoughts of suicide or preoccupation with death.
• Difficulty with sleep. Sleep behavior altering from difficulty falling asleep, restless, broken sleep, or over sleeping.
• Trouble concentrating and making decisions.
• A change in appetite -- either eating more or eating less.
• Feelings of worthlessness and guilt.
• Feeling intensely agitated or irritable with restlessness.
• Frequent or constant tiredness or feeling run down with very little activity.

Several of these symptoms, for two weeks or more, should be brought to the attention of your doctor or health care professional for an assessment.

Symptoms in children, teens and the elderly vary slightly. For example, children and teens often seem irritable, perhaps refusing to go to school. Although depression may be a debilitating illness, many medications are now available for effective treatment.

Written by: Me