Depression is a common medical condition with very specific
symptoms. Depression might be different for each person.
The term depression refers to:
- A lasting sad mood and/or - Loss of interest or pleasure in most activitiesSometimes
people experience several or all of these additional symptoms:
- Changes in appetite or weight - Changes in sleep patterns - Restlessness or decreased activity that others
notice - Loss of energy or feeling tired all the time
- Hard time concentrating or making decisions - Feelings of worthlessness or guilt - Repeated thoughts of death or suicide
For a doctor to decide that someone is clinically depressed,
the person must have five or more of these symptoms and
at least one must be either of the first two main symptoms
of depression. Also, these symptoms must last for at least
two weeks. The symptoms should be serious enough to cause
worry and to get in the way of the person's work, social
life, or daily life.
If you have had some of these depression symptoms and
they have lasted for at least two weeks, you should see
your doctor to find out what the cause could be.
Depressed people might also have problems with digestion,
such as dry mouth, nausea, constipation and, less commonly,
diarrhea.
Being worried, anxious, or irritable all the time could
also be hidden signs of depression.
If you think you or someone you know might suffer from
depression, fill out the checklist on this site. These
answers can help a doctor diagnose depression. Only doctor
or other qualified healthcare professional can diagnose
depression.
