Depression Symptoms

Not everyone who is depressed experiences all of the symptoms of depressions. Frequently symptoms will wax and wane over time. Some people may experience a few of the symptoms, others may experience most or all of the symptoms. An assessment with a qualified professional is required to make the diagnosis of depression.

• Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood
• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex
• Decreased energy, fatigue, being “slowed down”
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
• Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
• Appetite and/or weight loss or overeating and weight gain
• Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts
• Restlessness, irritability
• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain

Seasonal Affective Disorder

• The depressive episodes regularly occur at a particular time of the year (e.g. fall or winter)
• The regular pattern is not caused by obvious seasonal psychosocial stressors (e.g. unemployed in winter)
• Full remission of the depression at a characteristic time of the year (depression disappears in the spring)
• The seasonal episodes substantially outnumber the non-seasonal episodes in a person’s lifetime
• Seasonal patterns in the past 2 years with no non-seasonal patterns in the past 2 years

Manic Symptoms

• Abnormal or excessive elation
• Unusual irritability
• Decreased need for sleep
• Grandiose notions
• Increased talking
• Racing thoughts
• Increased sexual desire
• Markedly increased energy
• Poor judgment
• Inappropriate social behavior