Signs

Understanding depression:

Clinical depression is characterized by a combination of symptoms including: fatigue; anxiety or restlessness; decreased ability to concentrate; persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness or irritability; loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities; changes in weight or appetite; sleep disturbances; feelings of guilt, helplessness or lack of self-worth; or suicidal thoughts.

From time to time, we all experience feelings of depression or experience a period of grief after a loss. These feelings can be very intense over a very short time, but they pass. Clinical depression is a far more serious, medical condition. Left untreated, depression can be life threatening.

Depression can last for years and without treatment can cause permanent disability. It is a profoundly painful, distressing disorder that can rarely be overcome without external help. It is an illness and it needs treatment.