DEPRESSION
Everyone occasionally feels blue or sad, but these feelings are usually short lived and pass within a couple of days. When the feeling continues for a considerable about of time, it interferes with daily life, normal functioning, and causes pain for both the person and those who care about him or her. Depression is a common but serious concern, and most who experience it can see improvement after seeking assistance.
People experiencing depression do not all identify the same symptoms. The severity, frequency and duration of symptoms will vary depending on the individual circumstances.
Symptoms include:
- Persistent sad, anxious or "empty" feelings
- Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
- Insomnia, early morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Overeating, or appetite loss
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
- Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment