Depression is a common mental health condition that can affect a person’s mood, thoughts, and behaviors.

While feeling sad or low from time to time is a normal part of life, depression lasts longer and interferes with a person’s daily activities. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or social status.

The Symptoms of Depression

Depression is not just feeling sad or blue. The symptoms of depression vary from person to person and can be different in men and women. The signs and symptoms of depression include:.

Feeling Sad or Hopeless

One of the most common signs of depression is feeling sad or hopeless. Depression can make a person feel like nothing can improve their situation, and they may not see any hope for the future.

They may find it difficult to enjoy anything and not be interested in their usual activities.

Loss of Interest or Pleasure

Another sign is a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. Depression can make it hard to feel pleasure or interest, even in activities previously enjoyed. This can be due to a loss of energy or drive, making it hard to get motivated to do anything.

Lack of Sleep or Appetite

Depression can also affect sleep and appetite. A person may have trouble sleeping, either difficulty falling asleep, or waking up frequently during the night. They may also find it hard to wake up in the morning and feel tired all day.

Similarly, depression can cause a loss of appetite or overeating, causing drastic weight changes.

Loss of Energy or Fatigue

Depression can cause a loss of energy or fatigue even with very little effort. Tasks that once were easy may now feel incredibly difficult or get put off entirely.

It’s not uncommon for someone with depression to feel like they’re constantly dragging and just too tired to keep up with daily tasks.

Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions

Depression may interfere with a person’s ability to think or concentrate, making it difficult to focus long enough to complete tasks. The decision-making process may also be impaired, causing an inability to make even simple decisions or choices.

Self-Criticism or Shame

It is not uncommon for people with depression to feel self-critical, ashamed, or guilty. They may feel like everything is their fault or that they’re not good enough.

This can result in feeling like a burden to others or self-isolating, which only feeds into the depression.

Psychomotor Symptoms

Psychomotor symptoms mean a person’s movements or gestures can also be affected by depression. For example, they may appear to be moving slowly or not moving at all, slouching, or show a lack of eye contact.

These symptoms can be subtle but can be observed readily by others.

Physical Symptoms

Depression can also have physical symptoms affecting the body. A person with depression may experience headaches, body aches, or stomach problems, which are not explained by any physical cause.

These symptoms are often ignored or considered as insignificant.

Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior

When depression is left untreated, it can lead to suicidal thoughts or behaviors. A history of suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, or self-harm should be taken seriously and warrants attention from a mental health professional.

It is essential to get help quickly in these situations.

The Bottom Line

Depression can be debilitating, and seeking help is necessary. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is vital to seek help from a mental health professional for evaluation and possible treatment.