The Symptoms of Depression

Depression can present different symptoms, depending on the person. But for most people, depressive disorder changes how they function day-to-day, and typically for more than two weeks. Common symptoms include:
▪ Changes in sleep
▪ Changes in appetite
▪ Lack of concentration
▪ Loss of energy
▪ Lack of interest in activities
▪ Hopelessness or guilty thoughts
▪ Changes in movement (less activity or agitation)
▪ Physical aches and pains
▪ Suicidal thoughts

Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with depressive disorder, a person must have experienced a depressive episode lasting longer than two weeks. The symptoms of a depressive episode include:
▪ Loss of interest or loss of pleasure in all activities
▪ Change in appetite or weight
▪ Sleep disturbances
▪ Feeling agitated or feeling slowed down
▪ Fatigue
▪ Feelings of low self-worth, guilt or shortcomings
▪ Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
▪ Suicidal thoughts or intentions
Source: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)