Signs & Symptoms of Depression

December 9, 2003

Persistent sad or empty feelings
Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were previously enjoyable, including sex
Fatigue or decreased energy
Difficulty concentrating, making decisions or remembering
Trouble sleeping, including early morning awakening or sleeping too much
Appetite or weight changes
Restlessness or irritability
Persistent physical problems that don't respond to medical treatment
thoughts of death or suicide

All of these symptoms need not be present for a diagnosis of depression. Some individuals experience only a few, others many. The symptoms also may change in intensity over time.

Source: National Institute of Mental Health Men and Depression booklet