Not everyone experiences clinical depression in the same way.
Different people have different symptoms. If you experience
FIVE or more of the symptoms listed below for longer than
two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere
with your daily routine, you may be experiencing clinical
depression. It is important to see a qualified mental health
professional for further evaluation. A thorough physical
examination by your medical doctor to rule out other illnesses
may be recommended.
Symptoms
of clinical depression
• A persistent sad, anxious or "empty" mood
• Sleeping too little or sleeping too much
• Reduced appetite and weight loss, or increased appetite
and weight gain
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Restlessness or irritability
• Persistent physical symptoms that don't respond to
treatment [such as headaches, chronic pain, or constipation
and other digestive disorders]
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless
• Thoughts of death or suicide Click
here to get screened for depression
Treatment
Effective
treatment for clinical depression often involves psychotherapy.
If appropriate, medication can be helpful in combination with
psychotherapy in the treatment of clinical depression.