What are the symptoms of depression?

1. Feeling depressed almost every day. Depressed mood and silent crying are both symptoms of depression. However, many people with depression feel numb and not sad.

2. Changes in appetite. Depression can cause an increase or decrease in appetite, so people with depression may gain or lose weight.

3. Chest tightness and palpitation. You may often feel chest tightness and palpitation. Going to the hospital for an examination often fails to find out the cause.

4. Lack of interest/fun and lack of internal drive in your daily activities. Depression makes people indifferent to things that are usually considered important. You may have to force yourself to finish what you need to do. Even a small thing seems to be a burden. Many people with depression say that they are bored and lazy; even though they have no sleep problems, they always feel tired. Decreased sexual interest is also common.

5. Sleep problems. Many patients with depression suffer from insomnia, which often manifests as difficulty falling asleep, light sleep and more dreams, easy awakening, and early waking (woke up at 2-3 in the morning, and then it is difficult to fall asleep). Early awakening is often one of the characteristic symptoms of depression patients. Other people with depression may sleep too much, or they may need frequent naps in addition to their normal nighttime sleep.

6. Anxiety or restlessness. Patients with depression are often restless and anxious, sometimes reaching agitation. Anxiety can cause impatience and anger, and even low-level stress can be difficult to cope with.

7. Feelings of guilt, uselessness and insecurity. People with depression often feel negative about themselves, the world around them, and the future. They may feel guilty about the past. Many people with depression feel that they are useless and think that depression is a punishment for what they did or did not do. Depression can lead to feelings of insecurity and dependence on others. It can also lead to slovenly manner and poor personal hygiene.

8. Difficulty in concentration and normal thinking. Depression makes it difficult to think clearly and make even small decisions. People with depression often cannot concentrate easily. As patients’ work and daily life become inefficient, frustration and disgust may arise.

9. Fatigue or weakness. Most people with depression have different physical symptoms and feel uncomfortable all over.

10. Suicidal thoughts. Many people with depression think of death to relieve their pain. Patients often think and act of death to put an end to pain, suffering and confusion. Experts remind that if you are tempted to harm yourself and others, please consult a psychiatrist specialist immediately.