The signs and symptoms of depression are experienced differently from person to person. They can range from being mild to severe, happen slowly or quickly, and affect people in different ways.
Symptoms can be physical, emotional/psychological, and behavioural and include:
- Emotional: feeling sad, teary, irritable, anxious, hopeless and negative about self and others, feeling isolated, angry, exhausted, overwhelmed, poor concentration, negative or critical thoughts, thoughts about self-harm, suicidal thoughts.
- Behavioural: less motivated, distancing or withdrawing from family and friends, not being as productive as usual, using alcohol or other substances more, poor concentration, not doing enjoyable activities, difficulties at work/school/home.
- Physical: poor sleep or excessive sleep, fatigue or low in energy, feeling ill or run down, have headaches and muscle pains, appetite changes, significant weight changes.
When should I see a health professional?
Not everyone who experiences some symptoms has depression, and not everyone diagnosed with depression experiences all symptoms. It is important to have a discussion with a medical or mental health professional about what symptoms are being experienced so that an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan can be developed together.
