Signs of Clinical Depression

According to the University Health Services Tang Center in the University of California, Berkeley, Clinical Depression is a “serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and act” with prolonged periods of feeling sad and hopelessness and feeling different from how one normally is.

There are different types and levels of clinical depression but common signs are the following:

Physical Signs
• Sleep disturbances such as insomnia, oversleeping or waking earlier than usual
• Appetite changes
• Fatigue or decreased energy
• Headaches, digestive problems or other physical symptoms not explained by other physical conditions or do not respond to treatment

Behavioral Signs
• Loss of interest or pleasure in doing activities
• Difficulty in concentrating, remembering or making decisions
• Neglecting responsibilities or personal appearance

Emotional Signs
• Persistent sad or “empty” mood that persists for two weeks or more
• Crying “for no reason”
• Feeling hopeless, helpless, guilty or worthless
• Agitated, irritable and anxious
• Suicidal thoughts

Since clinical depression affects the day-to-day function of a person, it is important that patients diagnosed with clinical depression get immediate professional help.

________________________
Reference:
“UHS Tang Center.” UHS Tang Center. http://www.uhs.berkeley.edu/lookforthesigns/depressionsuicide.shtml