According to the American Psychiatric Association, up to 25 percent of the population will suffer from a depressive disorder during their lifespan. Although people of all ages can become depressed, some of the symptoms differ in children versus adults. The list below outlines the main symptoms of depression as they usually present in adults. Five or more symptoms must be present within a two-week period to meet the criteria for a major depressive episode. Two symptoms need be present over the course of two years to meet the criteria for dysthymic disorder.
Sadness
Although it may seem obvious that sadness or depressed mood is a symptom of depression, it is the pervasive nature of the sadness that differentiates this symptom from the occasional "blues." To meet diagnostic criteria, the depressed mood or sadness must persist, more often than not, on a daily basis. Tearfulness, anxiety, ruminative tendencies and feelings of worthlessness are hallmarks of this symptom and can either be self identified, or identified through the observations of others.
Disinterest
Another defining symptom of depression is the loss of interest in things that previously were fun or pleasurable. Again, the disinterest is pervasive and occurs more often than not on a daily basis. Although everyone occasionally loses interest in an activity or hobby, a depressed individual will cease to like things that are central to his life and important to overall happiness. For example, a sports fanatic might start missing Sunday football get-togethers or a parent might find it difficult to engage in a game with his child.
Low Self-esteem and Hopelessness
Individuals suffering from depression may experience feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and excessive guilt. Moreover, many times these symptoms are directly associated to other symptoms of depression. For example, a woman with depression may feel she is no fun to be around and therefore worthless as a friend or a parent. If she loses interest in her book club, an activity she previously enjoyed, she may feel guilty about avoiding her friends and she may become anxious that her friends think she is a "flake". It is particularly important to recognize these feelings as symptoms of depression separate from the activities or behaviors they are associated with in the depressed person's mind.
Change in Sleep or Eating Habits
Depression often manifests in an overall feeling of being worn out or fatigued. Depressed individuals may have difficulty falling or staying asleep which in turn can further the depression. Over-sleeping might also be experienced in a depressed person as well as a change in eating habits. A 5 percent change in weight that occurs over the course of a month without concerted effort is a red flag.
Thoughts of Suicide
Suicidal attempts are obviously a serious sign of major depression. Any discussion of suicide, increase in risky behavior, or persistent thoughts of death are also symptoms of suicidal ideation. Passive suicidal tendencies may include behaviors such as walking haphazardly through traffic, speeding and refusing to wear a seat belt, a marked increase in drinking, drugs or smoking, or recklessness while partaking in inherently dangerous activities such as extreme sports. Other behaviors to be aware of include giving away important or valuable items, saying "goodbyes" and gathering the items needed to carry out a suicide attempt. It is important to note that while women make more suicide attempts, men are more successful. Therefore, a man is more likely to succeed on his first attempt. Any indication of suicidal thoughts or plans should be taken seriously. If you are worried about yourself or a loved one, seek emergency crisis help.
References
- "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision", American Psychiatric Association; 2000
- Warning Signs for Suicide: Theory, Research, and Clinical Applications
