Primary depression refers to depression that has no known underlying physical or psychological cause, or depression that is the primary cause in which other conditions follow. For example, depression may trigger alcohol or drug abuse. Secondary depression arises from those triggers or other mental disorders. Symptoms of primary depression are similar to depression in general and vary between people.
Emotional Symptoms
Depressive thoughts cause people to frequently feel unhappy or result in an empty mood, according to Depression-Doctor.com. Thoughts that nothing is worthwhile may occur and people may feel they are a burden to others. Excessive crying happens to some people. Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness become overwhelming. People may start to think about past failures or blame themselves for events that do not turn out right. Thoughts of death or suicide may cross their minds. Suicide attempts are possible.
Physical Symptoms
Fatigue or feelings of decreased energy often accompany depression. Some people with depression complain of chronic aches and pains that have no underlying causes when doctors examine the patients. Sleep disturbances may include insomnia or oversleeping. Eating disorders become apparent and may include loss of appetite and weight or overeating with weight gain.
Behavioral Symptoms
Irritability or frustration becomes common for some depression patients, the Mayo Clinic notes. Restlessness, pacing or an inability to sit still may result. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions are problems. Depressive moods can make people easily distracted. Their slowed thinking causes them to speak or move slowly. People suffering from depression often lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, including sex. Depression can bring on substance abuse. Researchers found that primary depression followed by alcoholism occurs more often in women whereas primary alcoholism followed by depression is more common in men, the Addiction Technology Transfer Center Network reports.
Age-Related Symptoms
Children may show signs of sadness, hopelessness and worry. Adolescents and teens exhibit symptoms of anxiety or anger. They avoid social situations. Teens also reveal changes in thinking and sleep patterns. Depression in children and teens may be primary, followed by other disorders or occur along with anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, or other conditions. Depression in older adults often goes undiagnosed because symptoms are mistaken for aging problems, the Mayo Clinic explains. They may experience fatigue, loss of appetite, loss of sexual interest or sleep problems. They can become anti-social and feel bored, helpless or worthless. Suicidal thoughts also occur in older adults with depression.
