Signs and Symptoms of Depression

PerformCare wants to help our members learn  the signs of depression.

The signs of depression are different for each person. Many people say it is hard to get out of bed in the morning. Some want to hide under the covers and not talk to anyone. Some say they don't feel like eating.

Most people feel tired all the time and they don't sleep well at night. They may have to push themselves to take care of themselves or their children. Sometimes a person can feel hopeless, like nothing is going to change or get better.

People with depressive illnesses do not all have the same symptoms. How severe, how often it occurs and how long the symptoms last can all be different for each person.

Signs and symptoms include:

• Ongoing sadness, anxiousness or "empty" feelings.
• Feelings of hopelessness.
• Feeling negative.
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.
• Irritability, restlessness.
• Loss of interest in activities or hobbies that used to be fun.
• Being tired and having low energy.
• Finding it hard to concentrate, remember details and make decisions.
• Poor sleep, early-morning waking or sleeping too much.
• Eating too much, or not enough.
• Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts.
• Aches and pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment.