7 Signs That You May Be Depressed
1. Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness Feeling down, empty, tearful, or numb most days—even when nothing obvious triggers it.
2. Loss of Interest in Enjoyable Activities (Anhedonia) Previously loved hobbies, social outings, or daily pleasures no longer bring satisfaction or motivation .
3. Extreme Fatigue or Low Energy Even small tasks feel overwhelming; resting doesn’t restore your energy .
4. Changes in Sleep or Appetite Sleeping too much or too little, or experiencing significant weight gain or weight loss without dieting or illness.
5. Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions Feeling mentally foggy, forgetful, or indecisive—even about simple matters
6. Irritability, Restlessness, or Agitation Becoming easily annoyed or agitated, often over minor issues, or feeling unable to sit still
7. Feelings of Worthlessness, Excessive Guilt, or Suicidal Thoughts Persistent self-criticism, feeling undeserving of care, or recurrent thoughts of death or self-harm. When to Seek Help If you’re experiencing five or more of these symptoms nearly every day for two weeks or more, it may meet criteria for major depressive disorder (clinical depression) in the DSM‑5. It’s essential to talk to a mental health professional who can offer a safe space, diagnosis, and treatment support.
Why These Signs Matter
Depression affects not only mind but body; fatigue, aches, digestive problems, and impaired immunity are common manifestations. Many individuals compensate by masking emotions, remaining functional at work while suffering on the inside. Hidden suffering doesn’t mean absence of struggle. What You Can Do Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or support group Consult a mental health professional—therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist—early Adopt self-care habits: regular sleep, movement, nutrition, mindfulness Consider therapy (e.g. CBT) or medication, if recommended
