Depression is more than just being unhappy or tired for a few days. Depression is a long-lasting low mood disorder, and it goes beyond sadness. Most people have down times, but when you're depressed, you're down for weeks or months rather than just a few days.

The signs of depression can be complicated and differ significantly from person to person. Depression in children is frequently associated with other mental disorders, most notably anxiety, disruptive behavior, substance abuse disorders, and physical illness.

Some people believe that depression is unimportant and not a genuine medical condition. They are mistaken; it is a real disease with real symptoms. Depression is not a sign of weakness, nor can it be "snapped out of" by "pulling yourself together." The good news is that with the proper treatment and support, most people suffering from depression can recover completely.

You might experience sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in once-enjoyable activities if you're depressed. The symptoms last several weeks or months and are severe enough to affect your relationships with family, friends, and coworkers. You probably won't experience all the other signs and symptoms of depression listed on this page.

Behavioral symptoms and psychological signs 

• Ongoing low mood or sadness   

• Not getting any enjoyment out of life   

• Feeling hopeless and worthless

• Having poor self-esteem and confidence

• Reduced concentration or remembering things

• Find it difficult to make decisions or think clearly

• Feeling tearful

• Feeling guilty

• Feeling irritable and intolerant of others

• Lacking motivation or interest in things

• Finding it difficult to make decisions

• Feeling stressed, worried, or anxious

• Feeling helpless and sad

• Having suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harming

Physical Symptoms

• Feeling hopelessness and sadness

• Lack of energy

• Getting poor sleep, insomnia 

• Anxiety

• Losing your sex drive

• Vague aches and pain 

• Changes in your menstrual cycle

• May cause sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep at night or waking up early in the morning.

• Changes in movement or speech speed

• Changes in appetite or weight (usually decreased, but sometimes increased)

• Moving or speaking more slowly than usual

• Constipation

If you or someone you know is in immediate distress or is thinking about hurting themselves, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or the toll-free TTY number at 1-800-799-4TTY (4889). You also can text the Crisis Text Line (HELLO to 741741) or go to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org.