Jean DAndrea   Retired
Many people have no idea that they are suffering from depression.   They are

listless, sad, have no energy, can't be bothered with anything or anyone.    The

symptoms of depression can also be those of physical illness.



Here are some of the symptoms of depression.    For those of you who would

like something a little more formal, there's a very good checklist HERE


(These symptoms are taken from "Reachout")





Mood



Feeling sad, moody or crap

Feeling hopeless or helpless 

Feeling numb or empty

Feeling anxious 

Feeling guilty and blaming yourself

Unable to feel good or enjoy things that you do normally



Thinking



Being overly self-critical

Believing you can't cope and that things are out of your control

Difficulty making decisions and thinking clearly

Poor concentrating and memory

Thinking about suicide or ending your life



Behaviour



Lack of motivation and energy

Crying a lot

Losing interest in activities you usually enjoy 

Withdrawing from your friends and family or being overly dependent on them

Increased use of alcohol or other drugs

Losing your temper more than usual



Physical  



Loss of appetite or over-eating

Changes in sleep patterns - difficulty getting to sleep, waking up in the middle of the night or sleeping for longer

Headaches or stomach aches 

Feeling physically sick

Lack of interest in sex





If you, a family member, or friend are suffering from some of these symptoms, it is

well worth seeking professional advice.   



If your friend or family member is thinking suicidally, then you need to tell them that

if they don't get help, you will have to do it for them.



Above all, if someone you know is suffering from depression, PLEASE GET HELP !



You are not alone.



Talking about it will help ease the burden.



Don't keep it to yourself.
Dec 20th 2007 16:38