Depression is more than occasional sadness it’s a medical condition that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. Recognizing the signs early can help you seek support sooner.

Common symptoms lasting at least two weeks include:

• Persistent low mood or emptiness, even when things seem fine.
• Loss of interest in hobbies, work, or socializing (things you once enjoyed feel pointless).
• Significant changes in appetite or weight (eating much more or less than usual).
• Sleep problems insomnia, waking early, or sleeping excessively.
• Fatigue or feeling “slowed down” despite resting.
• Feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, or self-blame over minor issues.
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions.
• Restlessness or feeling unusually irritable.
• Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, or self-harm (with or without a plan).

Physical signs can appear too: unexplained aches, headaches, or digestive issues that don’t improve with treatment.

To check if you might have depression:

• Track your symptoms daily for two weeks using a journal or mood app. Note intensity (mild, moderate, severe) and triggers.
• Compare against the DSM-5 criteria: at least five symptoms (including depressed mood or loss of interest) nearly every day, causing significant distress or impairment.
• Use free, validated online screeners like the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire) or CES-D. Scores above 10 on PHQ-9 suggest possible depression, but they’re not diagnostic tools.
• Consider context: recent loss, trauma, chronic stress, substance use, or medical conditions (thyroid issues, vitamin deficiencies) can mimic or trigger depression.
• Ask trusted friends or family if they’ve noticed changes in your behavior they often spot signs you miss.

Remember: only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose depression. Self-assessment is a starting point, not a substitute for professional evaluation. If symptoms interfere with work, relationships, or safety, prioritize getting help immediately.