How to Recognize Depression
Depression impacts 17 million Americans. Here are the most common symptoms.
Depression is marked by feelings of sadness or emptiness for much of the day, nearly every day. Other symptoms include:
— Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
— Change in appetite-usually a decline, but sometimes an increase
— Difficulty sleeping, or sleeping more than usual
— Fatigue or lack of energy
— Agitation
— Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or inadequacy
— Difficulty concentrating, indecisiveness
— Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
— Unexplained aches and pains
If you’ve had one or more of these symptoms for two weeks or longer, consult a doctor or mental-health professional. If you’re thinking about suicide, or if you feel so bad that you can’t work or are avoiding people, seek help as soon as possible.
