World Suicide Prevention Day 2023: How To Identify Depression

Depression is more than just feeling sad; it's a persistent and overwhelming mood disorder. Here are some common signs and symptoms that may help you identify depression in yourself or someone else.

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1. Persistent sadness: Feeling persistently sad, empty, or hopeless for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks.

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2. Loss of interest or pleasure: A significant decrease in interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities, including hobbies, socializing, or work.

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3. Changes in appetite or weight: Significant changes in appetite, leading to either weight gain or weight loss.

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4. Sleep disturbances: Experiencing insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) or hypersomnia (excessive sleep) on a regular basis.

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5. Fatigue: Feeling chronically tired, even after a full night's sleep, and lacking energy for daily tasks.

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6. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt: Persistent feelings of worthlessness, self-blame, or excessive guilt, often without a specific cause.

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7. Difficulty concentrating: Struggling to concentrate, make decisions, or remember things, which can affect work or daily responsibilities.

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8. Physical symptoms: Experiencing unexplained physical symptoms like headaches, digestive problems, or chronic pain that don't respond well to treatment.

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9. Irritability or agitation: Feeling easily agitated, restless, or on edge, even over minor issues.

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10. Social withdrawal: Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities, often due to feelings of low self-esteem or the belief that others are better off without you.

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11. Thoughts of death or suicide: Having thoughts of death, dying, or suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is experiencing these thoughts, seek immediate professional help.

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12. Changes in physical activity: Significant changes in physical activity, which can include either agitation (restlessness) or psychomotor retardation (slowed movements and speech).

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