Everyone experiences feelings of sadness and low mood as a normal part of life. But, when these feelings last for two weeks or more and negatively impact our ability to work, socialize, and enjoy favorite activities, it could be a sign of major depression.
Major depression is a psychological condition which is defined by a specific set of symptoms and thought to be caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Signs or symptoms of depression may include:
- Persistent depressed mood
- Significant loss of interest/enjoyment in regular activities
- Significant weight loss/gain
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Feeling the need to move about or experiencing slowness in movement
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Difficulty with concentration or indecisiveness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
The good news is that symptoms of major depression can often be improved through effective treatments which can include psychotherapy, medications, or a combined treatment approach.