Am I Depressed? Signs You Should Watch For

If you or your someone you know has five or more of the following symptoms for more than two weeks, you should consult your physician or a therapist. Serious depression doesn't respond to self-help alone, and if you cannot decide for yourself if you are depressed it is best to seek the opinion of your doctor. Depression left untreated can become deadly.

Are you feeling sad or miserable most of the time?
Are you losing interest in Sex?
Have you lost interest in things that used to make you happy?
Are you suddenly restless or irritable?
Have you noticed your attention span isn't what it used to be?
Have you noticed that your patience is very short?
Are you having trouble sleeping, or are you sleeping too much?
Have you noticed a decrease in appetite?
Are you thinking repeatedly about death or suicide?
Are you feeling lethargic, like you don't want to do anything at all?

Depression is sadness that is intense enough to interfere with everyday functioning and has been described as "soul-crushing" sense of hopelessness. Depression is not only difficult for the person experiencing it, but for everyone around them. If you or anyone you know has been fighting feelings of sadness and despair for more than a few weeks, or if either of you is having suicidal thoughts, it's time to seek professional help.