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Every person experiences sadness and often in common parlance people use the term depression to talk about the low they may experience. However, often they are not aware that depression as an illness, can be diagnosed only if certain signs and symptoms are seen for at least 2 weeks continually in a person. These include experiencing sad or low moods or losing interest in activities that were previously experienced as pleasurable.

According to WHO, depression is different from regular mood changes and feelings about everyday life. It can affect all aspects of life, including relationships with family, friends and community. It can result from or lead to problems at school and work. Depression can happen to anyone. People who have lived through abuse, severe losses or other stressful events are more likely to develop depression. Women are more likely to have depression than men.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Kamna Chhibber, Clinical Psychologist Head - Mental Health, Department of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, Fortis Healthcare explained some immediate signs and symptoms of depression. 

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Signs And Symptoms Of Depression

Often the individual is unable to derive as much pressure or joy from activities as they did previously. They experience tiredness and fatigue as well as difficulties in concentration. There can be concurrent problems related to sleep and appetite with both reducing or becoming more. 

People experiencing depression tend to have feelings of helplessness and even worthlessness. This can increase a sense of hopelessness about the future as well. Individuals can have thoughts that relate to self-harm. 

Symptoms Of Depression (Image Credits: Canva)

Not every person experiences all the symptoms at the same time. However, the low moods and lack of interest would be continually present. The symptoms being experienced need to be present continuously for at least 2 weeks and they create an interference in the individual's functioning in their personal, social or occupational settings.

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