Depression is more than just feeling sad once in a while. Everyone has bad days, but depression is when that sadness — or a feeling of emptiness — sticks around for weeks or months and starts to interfere with everyday life. It can affect how you think, feel, sleep, eat, and even how you see yourself and the world around you.
Here are some common symptoms of depression, explained in simple terms:
- Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the time:
This is often the first thing people notice. It’s not just being upset about one thing — it’s a heavy sadness that doesn’t seem to go away, even when there’s no clear reason. Some people describe it as feeling numb, like they’re disconnected from everything.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in things once enjoyed:
Things that used to bring happiness — like hobbies, sports, hanging out with friends, or even favorite foods — may no longer seem fun or worth the effort. It can feel like the world has turned gray.
- Changes in appetite and weight:
Some people eat a lot more when they’re depressed, while others lose their appetite completely. Significant weight gain or weight loss can be a sign that something deeper is going on.
- Trouble sleeping — or sleeping too much:
Depression can make it hard to fall asleep, stay asleep, or feel rested even after a full night’s sleep. On the flip side, some people with depression sleep much more than usual, finding it hard to get out of bed.
- Feeling tired or having no energy:
Even small tasks, like taking a shower or making breakfast, can feel exhausting. People with depression often say they feel “drained” or “weighed down.”
- Feeling worthless or guilty:
A common symptom is being overly hard on yourself. You might blame yourself for things that aren’t your fault or believe you’re a burden to others. These thoughts can be constant and cruel.
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions:
Depression can make it really hard to focus, remember things, or make simple choices. It might feel like your brain is in a fog.
- Feeling restless or slowed down:
Some people feel edgy and can’t sit still, while others move, speak, or think more slowly than usual. Either way, there’s often a noticeable change in how the body feels and moves.
- Thoughts of death or suicide:
In severe cases, depression can lead to thinking that life isn’t worth living or that others would be better off without you. These thoughts can be very serious and require immediate help and support.
It’s important to know that not everyone with depression has all of these symptoms. Some might only have a few, but those few can still cause major problems in daily life.
Depression is a real medical condition, not a sign of weakness or something you can just “snap out of.” With the right support — like therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and connection with others — people can and do recover.
If you or someone you know might be dealing with depression, reaching out for help is a strong and important first step toward feeling better.