What is Depression?

Depression

What is Depression?

Depression is described as a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest. Sometimes, people refer to these symptoms using terms like “the blues” or “stress”. Depression can affect your feelings, behaviors and thoughts and can sometimes result in emotional and physical problems. It is important to know when symptoms (like sadness and irritability) persist as this may be an indication that it is time to seek help.

Symptoms of depression may include, but are not limited to:

• Trouble performing day to day tasks and activities
• Trouble sleeping (not sleeping enough or sleeping too much)
• Significant changes in appetite (significant decrease or increase in appetite)
• Feelings of sadness, anxiety or restlessness
• Feeling or guilt or worthlessness
• Suicidal ideations (thoughts of suicide and/or suicide attempts)
• A loss of interest in things once enjoyed
• Irritability