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Focus On: Depression
Part 2: Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder
The following symptoms are persistent, bothersome and have been present nearly every day for at least two weeks If you answer yes to the first two symptoms and at least three other symptoms, you may be depressed. See a psychologist, psychiatrist or your physician to confirm the diagnosis.
◊ I feel depressed, sad or empty most of the day, most days. For children or adolescents, this can be irritability. ◊ I’ve lost interest and pleasure in activities that are usually enjoyable. ◊ My appetite is decreased or increased, or my weight has increased or decreased without intentionally dieting. ◊ My sleep pattern has changed. I’m having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep and/or I’m sleeping less or more than usual. ◊ I’m moving slower or my movements are agitated and restless. ◊ I’m fatigued or my energy is lower than usual nearly every day. ◊ I feel worthless and excessively guilty. (Examples: I keep going over mistakes I made in the past. I’m feeling unusually sensitive to rejections or slights.) ◊ I’m having trouble concentrating and remembering. I keep misplacing things and getting confused easily. ◊ I can’t seem to make decisions. I feel aimless and overwhelmed. ◊ I’m often having thoughts of death or suicide.*
If you have just a few of the symptoms, or several symptoms of lesser severity, and they have lasted for at least two years, you may have dysthymic disorder.
Help is available. Don’t wait! Consult a psychologist, psychiatrist or physician.
You may also notice these signs of depression:
◊ I’m feeling hopeless, pessimistic and helpless. ◊ I have persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain. ◊ I am using alcohol or drugs (whether legal or illegal) to treat symptoms. ◊ I am feeling unmotivated, overwhelmed or aimless. ◊ I am feeling unusually angry or irritable. ◊ I’m worrying excessively. I am more fearful than usual.
*If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately from your medical doctor, psychologist, psychiatrist, or the emergency room of your local hospital.
What is a Depressive Disorder? Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder Mania Causes of Depression Treatments for Depression |
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All information on this web site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical, psychological or psychiatric advice or treatment for specific conditions. You should seek prompt care for any specific medical or mental health issues. |
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Copyright 1999. Geraldine T. Merola, Ph.D. All rights reserved. |
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Geraldine T. Merola, Ph.D. |
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Clinical Psychologist |
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Contact Dr. Merola: 159 Green Street Phone 845-338-3250 Kingston, NY 12401 email: drmerola@drmerola.com
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