Symptoms of depression

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Symptoms of depression

You may be depressed if you have experienced at least five of the following symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks.

People who are depressed have at least one of the first two symptoms.

Feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Children may be irritable instead of sad or depressed.
A noticeable loss of interest or pleasure in almost all activities
Significant weight loss or gain
Difficulty falling asleep or sleeping too much
Restlessness and an inability to sit still
Constant tiredness
Feelings of worthlessness or overwhelming guilt
Inability to concentrate, to remember, or to make decisions
Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

Most people experience some form of depression at some point in their lives. Depression can range from a minor problem to a major, life-threatening illness. Depression is usually treatable. For many people, treatment can dramatically improve their quality of life.

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Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Ralph Poore
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Lila Havens
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Last Updated	March 21, 2007

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Last updated:	March 21, 2007
Author:	Ralph Poore
Reviewed By:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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