Depression affects nearly everyone at one time or another, but it is a state of mind that many people can snap out of on their own in a short time. Those who can't come out of it quickly generally suffer from actual medical depression. This mental illness can be treated with a variety of medications and psychotherapy. It is important to know the signs of depression so you can get help.
Sadness
Most people who experience sadness come out of it after several days, and it often has a direct cause such as the loss of a loved one or the end of relationship. When it continues, however, and appears to have no direct cause, it may be a sign of depression. This is one of the most common ongoing symptoms of the mental illness.
Hopelessness
Another ongoing symptom of depression is a loss or lack of hope. There may appear to be no light at the end of the tunnel, nothing to look forward to. Because of this, you may experience other ongoing symptoms such as a decrease in or absence of interest in things you normally like to do, or simply in daily things you normally do. This also may lead to crying periods. It is not necessarily depression if you cry because of certain events or feelings, but it may be if you cry without an apparent reason, and mainly, if you do it often.
Suicidal Behavior
Since depression may make you feel there is nothing to live for, another ongoing symptom may be a tendency to have suicidal thoughts or exhibit suicidal behavior. This generally can occur in two ways. The first is thinking about ways to kill yourself and possibly formulating a plan. The second is acting recklessly with little regard for your own safety. These behaviors may fade in and out throughout your life, and you may never actually take your own life, but the symptoms may be there.
Feeling Worthless
Depression often may lead to feelings of worthlessness or the feelings of worthlessness may lead to depression. This inability to know or see your self worth can drive you deeper into depression because, without a sense of self worth, there may appear to be no reason to live or enjoy life.
Other Symptoms
Signs that you may be experiencing depression that persist also may include a decreased interest in sexual activity, difficulty sleeping or insomnia, mental concentration difficulties, irritability, fatigue or weakness, decision-making difficulties and physical ailments that do not appear to have a direct cause such as headaches or pain in the back.
