Depression isn’t just sadness—it’s a persistent shift in your mood, body, and ability to function. If you’ve been feeling “off” for more than two weeks, ask yourself honestly:

Do You Have These Common Signs?

Low mood most of the day
You feel sad, empty, hopeless, or irritable—even when nothing “bad” is happening.

Loss of interest or pleasure
Hobbies, socializing, or even small joys (like music or sunshine) no longer feel meaningful.

Changes in sleep
You’re sleeping too much—or lying awake for hours, especially waking up very early and unable to fall back asleep.

Fatigue or low energy
Even simple tasks (showering, replying to a text) feel exhausting.

Appetite or weight shifts
You’ve lost interest in food—or you’re eating more to cope.

Trouble concentrating
Your mind feels foggy. You forget things, can’t focus at work, or struggle to make decisions.

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
You blame yourself for things that aren’t your fault or believe you’re a burden.

Slowed movements or restlessness
Others might notice you speak or move more slowly—or you feel “wired” but drained.

Thoughts of death or suicide
Not necessarily a plan—but wishing you “weren’t here” or that life would just end.

When to Take It Seriously

If five or more of these symptoms last most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more—and they interfere with work, relationships, or daily life—it may be clinical depression.

Important: You don’t need to feel “sad” to be depressed. Many people—especially men—experience depression as irritability, anger, or numbness.

What to Do Next

• Talk to a doctor or therapist. Depression is a medical condition—not a weakness.
• Take a screening quiz like the PHQ-9 (available online) to help start the conversation.
• Reach out to someone you trust. You don’t have to explain everything—just say, “I haven’t been okay lately.”

Depression lies to you: “This is forever. No one can help.” But the truth is—it’s treatable, and you deserve relief.

Asking this question is already a sign of strength. The next step isn’t about fixing everything—it’s about letting someone walk with you through it. And that changes everything.