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Depression Symptoms

Signs of Depression

Depression refers to a loss of interest in most of life's activities and a corresponding lack of pleasure experienced from activities. Depression effects feelings and includes the persistent feeling of sadness and 'feeling blue'. Depression is characterized by many specific symptoms. Like other illnesses, the signs of depression can differ greatly from one person to the next, with individuals exhibiting a varying number and degree of depression symptoms.

Coping with depression symptoms may require help from many sources, including doctors, therapists and support groups. Taking a depression quiz or other type of depression test can help individuals determine that their symptoms do indicate mild depression or a more severe form, and depression counseling can be the first step to accessing the help needed to cope with the condition.

Common signs of depression include:

• Changes in appetite

• Changes in weight (weight loss or weight gain)

• Lack of energy

• Persistent tiredness

• Restlessness

• Lack of involvement in activities

• Unfounded feelings of guilt

• Difficulty concentrating

• Feelings of worthlessness

• Trouble making decisions

• Recurring thoughts of death and/or suicide

• Making a diagnosis of depression

A doctor will make a diagnosis of depression if one or all of the following are true:

1) symptoms must be ongoing for a period of at least two weeks
2) symptoms must be profound enough to cause an individual distress
3) symptoms must be severe enough so as to cause interference with jobs, daily life or social functioning

It is common for those exhibiting symptoms of depression to also indicate concerns about physical health. Physical symptoms, such as persistent aches and pains, headaches, and digestive problems, often accompany the symptoms of depression. This is not surprising, as feeling continually anxious, irritable and worried can often lead to physical manifestations.

Taking a depression quiz or test online can help start the process of diagnosing depression. Depression counseling can help patients find a doctor who will review the patient's physical condition, and any history of mental illness or drug/alcohol use will also be reviewed. Only a licensed physician who specializes in the symptoms of depression should make a diagnosis of depression.