Signs and Symptoms
Depression is a serious medical condition that affects your thoughts, feelings, moods and can impact your physical health too. Depression affects around 1 in 5 people in York and Adams Counties but depression is not the same for everyone. There are many different treatments available for those with depression, which have been shown to help.
Below are some of the signs and symptoms of depression that people dealing with depression may experience.
(adapted from Community Care Behavioral Health Organization)
• Depressed mood. Depressed people feel sad and hopeless. They might feel like giving up, cry a lot, feel empty, or have no feelings. Some people may become irritable or angry.
• Less interest or pleasure in activities. Many depressed people don’t like the activities they used to enjoy. They don’t want to be with other people. They might lose interest in sex. They might not take care of how they dress or look. They might not keep themselves clean.
• Problems sleeping. Some depressed people have trouble falling asleep. Other people can’t sleep all through the night or wake up too early in the morning. Some people sleep a lot.
• Feeling tired. Even with enough sleep, some depressed people feel tired all the time. Because they feel tired, they don’t have much energy.
• Feeling nervous or slowed-down. Some people feel nervous or restless because of depression. Other people slow down.
• Feeling guilty and useless. Depressed people feel bad about themselves. They are critical of themselves. They feel guilty for things that are not their fault. They often feel useless.
• Problems with memory. Depressed people often forget even simple things. They have trouble concentrating. It is hard for them to make decisions.
• Physical symptoms. Some people with depression have physical symptoms. Headaches, stomach pain, and feeling sick are common.
• Appetite change. Some people with depression want to eat more and may gain weight. Some people with depression want to eat less and may lose weight.
Symptoms can also be experienced differently by men, women and older adults. For more information, click on the links below:
We all feel blue from time to time, but it is important that you seek help immediately if you experience the symptoms below.
• Suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempts. Depressed people might think about killing or hurting themselves. If you are thinking about killing or hurting yourself, call your doctor or therapist right away, or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Alcohol and drug Abuse. Overusing alcohol or drugs might be a symptom that a person is depressed. Talk with your doctor or therapist about your use of drugs and alcohol
