Signs of depression and where to get help

In short: depression is more than feeling sad for a few days. If low mood or loss of interest lasts most days for two weeks or more, talk to a doctor. Depression is common and treatable.

What depression is

Everyone feels sad or low sometimes. Depression is a health condition in which low mood and other symptoms last for weeks and affect how you feel, think and handle daily life, such as work, sleep and eating. It can happen to anyone, at any age.

Common signs

Feeling sad, empty, anxious or hopeless most of the time
Losing interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
Feeling tired or low on energy
Sleeping much more or less than usual
Eating more or less, or weight changes
Trouble concentrating, remembering or making decisions
Feeling worthless or guilty
Moving or speaking more slowly, or feeling restless
Aches, pains or stomach problems without a clear cause
Thoughts of death or suicide

What helps

Talk to a doctor. They can check for other causes and discuss treatment.
Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), help many people.
Medicines may be offered. A doctor will help you decide what's right for you.
Small steps, such as a short walk, regular meals, keeping in touch with people and a steady sleep routine, can support recovery.
Be patient. Treatment can take a few weeks to work, and it's fine to try a different approach if the first doesn't help.

When to get help

See a doctor or mental health professional if you've had several of these signs for two weeks or more, or sooner if they're making daily life hard.

If you're in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, get help now. In the U.S., call or text 988 (the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or chat at 988lifeline.org. Elsewhere, call your local emergency number. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.

Sources

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Depression
MedlinePlus: Depression
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988lifeline.org