The symptoms of depression

Question: I have been experiencing feelings of hopelessness, restlessness, and inadequacy for a while now. I feel like no matter what I do, or what changes I make in my life, it won't matter. I find myself just staying in bed most of the day, and have basically given up on housework. I am sick of feeling this way, but I can't seem to snap out of it, or get motivated to do anything different. I keep thinking I should, but can't seem to follow through with it. What is wrong with me?

Answer: This sounds like depression. The feelings you mentioned are all of the above instances can be signs of depression. Of course, just because you feel restless or hopeless doesn't mean you are depressed, you could just be sad or down. Let's take a closer look at the symptoms of depression, and what you can do about it if you are depressed.

Generally, if you have the symptoms of depression listed below, and they persist for more than two weeks, you are clinically depressed. The symptoms in and of themselves are normal feelings, but if they start to overwhelm you or persist, then it is not. It is normal to occasionally not be happy, but if it is a continual thing, or leads to thoughts of death, suicide, etc. then it is a real problem and you should seek medical attention, therapy, etc.

Studies and national experts on mental health have said that the symptoms of clinical depression can include one or more of the following:

• Having difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions. This is especially worrisome if this is not something that was difficult for you in the past.


• Fatigue and decreased energy, regardless of how you sleep, etc.


• If you have feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness these could be signs of depression, especially if you have nothing to feel guilty about.


• Intense feelings of pessimism, or hopelessness.


• Either not being able to sleep, or sleeping excessively.


• Feeling irritable regardless of situations.


• Feeling restless regularly or without cause.


• If you lose interest in activities you once liked.


• If you lose interest in intimacy, including sex.


• If there are sudden changes in appetite that lead to weight loss or gain.


• If you feel crampy, in pain, digestive problems, or just do not feel good, and medication doesn't help.


• If you have persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings


• If you have thoughts of suicide, or make suicide attempts

These are all symptoms of depression. Many people who have depression don't recognize it, and thus never get it treated, despite that fact that treatment such as medication and talk therapy could really help alleviate the symptoms. If you are worried, or are unsure, then you should seek a consultation from a professional.