The symptoms of depression

There are many different potential symptoms of depression, some of which are also symptoms of other illnesses. So don't immediately assume that you are depressed, or someone you know is, on the basis of one or two of these symptoms. However, if you can place a tick next to many of the symptoms, and the person concerned is also experiencing some of the feelings associated with depression, the chances are that depression is the cause.

Lack of interest in things that used to be enjoyable
Nightmares, which can 'hang-over' into the daytime
Significant, unintentional weight loss or gain
Loss of sex drive
Sleep problems
Anxiety and/or panic attacks
Paranoia and/or irrational fear
Irritability and/or mood swings
A desire to go back to past situations
Physical symptoms such as headaches, back ache and stomach cramps; sometimes mental strain can find its way out in physical symptoms, especially if the person concerned refuses to accept their problems.

If you suspect that depression is at the root of the person's symptoms, contact a doctor immediately. As is the case with many illnesses, the sooner the problem is diagnosed, the faster it can be dealt with. Depression is not rare or unusual, and can crop up from normal life experiences, as our CASE STUDIES show.

Latest updates to this site

Depression Case Study 820:
From my early childhood I was bullied and used to go to school with knots in my stomach. ...

Comment about Case Study 569:
hi I have been off a drug called citalopram for 2 weeks now and have been finding it ...

Advice text 205:
I have been depressed and off work for two months now and I fear going back as my ...

Creative work 349:
Empty words pecky crow bird sittin on my head fools staring batteries low great crack opening to swallow ...

© Unusual Publishing Ltd 1999-2008. Have we helped you? Then please help us! Important note: The information carried on this site relates to the direct experience of depression sufferers and is not intended as a medical guide. Nothing on this site can replace the supervision and advice of a good doctor, psychologist or psychiatrist. Anyone suffering from depression should see their doctor immediately and regularly. Legal/privacy statement. Validate.