Understanding Depression ~ Symptoms What Are the Symptoms? For major depression, you may experience five or more of the following for at least a two-week period: - Persistent sadness, pessimism.
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness or hopelessness.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, including sex.
- Difficulty concentrating and complaints of poor memory.
- Worsening of coexisting chronic disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes.
- Insomnia or oversleeping.
- Weight gain or loss.
- Fatigue, lack of energy.
- Anxiety, agitation, irritability.
- Thoughts of suicide or death.
- Slow speech; slow movements.
- Headache, stomachache and digestive problems.
In children and adolescents: - Insomnia, fatigue, headache, stomachache, dizziness.
- Apathy, social withdrawal, weight loss.
- Drug abuse or alcohol abuse, a drop in school performance, difficulty concentrating.
- Isolation from family and friends.
For dysthymia (minor, but long-term depression), symptoms are less intense and fewer in number, but long-lasting. Call Your Doctor If: - You or a loved one have suicidal thoughts, or have other signs of either major depression or dysthymia; help is available.
- You are considering alternative or complementary treatments. It's important that your doctor be aware of all aspects of your treatment.
NOTE: There is a distinct difference between feeling "depressed" and having a depressive illness. If you have low spirits for a while, don't be concerned. However, if you feel you can't lift yourself out of your misery, seek help. WebMD Medical Reference © 2005 WebMD, Inc. All rights reserved. ghsu3130922207 |