Know the Symptoms of Depression

Everyone feels down at times. It's a natural part of life. But an unhappy period that's intense or lasts for more than a few weeks is different. It can be a sign of depression.

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Everyone feels down at times. The blues are a natural part of life. But an unhappy period that’s intense or lasts for more than a few weeks is different. It can be a sign of depression. Depression is a serious illness. It's not a sign of weakness. It's not a choice or a character flaw. And it's not something you can just snap out of. Most people with depression need treatment to get better. Depression can disrupt the lives of family and friends. If you know someone who may be depressed, find out what you can do to help.

Two women talking outdoors.

Symptoms of depression

People who are depressed may:

  • Feel unhappy, sad, blue, down, or miserable almost all day, almost every day

  • Feel helpless, hopeless, or worthless

  • Lose interest in hobbies, friends, and activities that used to give pleasure

  • Not sleep well or sleep too much

  • Gain or lose weight

  • Feel low on energy or always tired

  • Have a hard time focusing or making decisions

  • Lose interest in sex

  • Have physical symptoms, such as stomachaches, headaches, or backaches

Know the serious signs

Never ignore a person's comments about suicide. Or behaviors that can lead to self-harm. Warning signs for suicide include:

  • Threats or talk of suicide. Talk of harming themselves or others.

  • Saying things such as “I won’t be a problem much longer” or “Nothing matters.”

  • Giving away their things. Or making a will or funeral plans.

  • Buying a gun or other weapon.

  • Stockpiling medicine.

  • Sudden, unexplained cheerfulness or calm after a period of depression.

If you see any of these signs, get help right away. Call a healthcare provider, mental health clinic, or suicide hotline. Ask what you should do. In an emergency, call or text 988. You will be connected to trained crisis counselors at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. An online chat option is also available at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Lifeline is free and available 24/7. You can also call Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255).

If you are concerned that your friend may be thinking about suicide, ask them. Asking about suicide does not lead to suicide. If your friend talks about suicide, act right away! Suicidal thoughts or actions are not a harmless bid for attention. They are a sign of extreme stress and should not be ignored.

If the threat is immediate (your friend has a plan and the means to carry it out), call or text 988Don’t leave your friend alone. Remove any means, such as guns, rope, or stockpiled pills.

To learn more