- Symptoms of depression include dramatic changes in sleeping patterns, significant weight gain or loss, a loss of interest in activities that are typically enjoyed, depressed mood, decreased self-worth, thoughts of death or suicide and a number of other changes. If you have thoughts of suicide seek treatment immediately. Other less debilitating symptoms should be considered based upon their severity and length of expression.
- Clinical depression is more than a couple of bad days--symptoms must present themselves consistently for at least two weeks to warrant a diagnosis. Seek professional treatment if symptoms persist after two weeks.
- Bouts of depression are often episodic. Do not try to wait it out if you find yourself swinging in and out of depression over long periods of time. Getting treatment can prevent future episodes as well as quelling current symptoms.
- Depression that causes an impairment in any aspect of life should be treated immediately. A decline in job performance and troubles with personal relationships can be indicative of such debilitation.
- Postpartum depression, a period of depression following pregnancy, can be destructive not only to mothers, but to their newborns as well. Seek treatment if symptoms persist for several days.
- Symptoms that fall just short of depression but persist for several months should be treated. Dysthymia, a more mild but long-lasting sadness, can be as debilitating as depression.
