What are the symptoms of depression?

That’s a big question! People with depression may experience some or all of the following:

• Sadness or unhappiness
• Trouble sleeping—or sleeping too much
• Little or no sex drive
• Irritability
• Loss of appetite, or a significant increase in appetite
• Restlessness, trouble sitting still
• Loss of energy, fatigue
• Self blame, guilt, or a sense of worthlessness
• Slowed thinking
• Crying spells
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Unexplained headaches or back pain.

Depression affects people in different ways, and factors such as age, gender and family history can influence the symptoms of depression. If you or a person you know is having thoughts of suicide then it is important to get help right away. For example, you could contact a friend or family member, call a suicide hotline, or go to your hospital’s emergency room.