Learn the symptoms of depression

Depression symptoms vary from person to person. They can include:

• Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness.
• Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters.
• Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports.
• Sleeping too little or too much.
• Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort.
• Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased appetite and weight gain.
• Physical problems that can't be explained, such as back pain or headaches.
• Anxiety, restlessness or nervousness.
• Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements.
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, focusing on past failures, or blaming yourself for things that aren't your responsibility.
• Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things.
• Frequent or repeated mention of not wanting to live, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide.

For many people with depression, symptoms can affect daily activities at work or school. Depression also can affect social activities and relationships with others. Other people may feel generally miserable or unhappy without knowing why. Children and teens may show depression by being cranky rather than sad.