- Depressed or irritable mood: Individuals may experience overwhelming sadness, hopelessness, or irritability for most of the day, nearly every day, affecting all areas of life.
- Loss of interest or pleasure: Referred to as anhedonia, this symptom is characterized by a significant reduction in interest or enjoyment in almost all activities, even those that were once pleasurable.
- Changes in weight or appetite: Significant weight loss or gain, or noticeable changes in appetite, may occur without intentional dieting, either due to loss of appetite or increased cravings.
- Sleep disturbances: Sleep patterns often change, leading to insomnia (difficulty sleeping) or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping), which can worsen other depression symptoms.
- Psychomotor changes: Observable slowing down of movement or speech, or conversely, unusual restlessness and agitation.
- Fatigue and low energy: Persistent fatigue and lack of energy are common, making daily tasks feel exhausting.
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt: Individuals may suffer from intense feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, often over minor issues or perceived shortcomings.
- Difficulty concentrating: Trouble with concentration, decision-making, or memory can greatly impair daily functioning and productivity.
- Indecisiveness: A common symptom is struggling with decision-making, even for simple choices, which can lead to frustration and feelings of helplessness.
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors: In severe cases, there may be recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, or even suicide attempts, which require immediate attention and intervention.
Understanding Major Depression: Symptoms and Treatment
