Major depression is a more severe form of depression that affects one’s ability to work, sleep, study, and engage in life. It often requires medical treatment.

Symptoms:

• Deep feelings of hopelessness or despair

• Significant weight loss or gain

• Persistent fatigue or low energy

• Inability to experience pleasure

• Persistent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation

• Feelings of guilt or self-loathing

Persistent sadness is often the main symptom of depression. It involves feeling down, empty, or hopeless most of the time, with little to no relief. This emotional state can make even ordinary tasks feel overwhelming and leave individuals struggling to engage with their surroundings or find meaning in their lives.

Symptoms:

• Feeling down or hopeless most of the day.

• Inability to experience joy or pleasure.

• Tearfulness without a clear reason.

• A sense of emptiness or a lack of purpose.

• A negative outlook on life, even in positive situations.

Fatigue and low energy are common symptoms of depression, where individuals often feel mentally and physically drained. Despite getting adequate rest, those experiencing depression may still feel exhausted, leading to difficulty completing tasks, a lack of motivation, and a general sense of heaviness throughout the day.

Symptoms:

• Feeling physically and emotionally drained.

• Difficulty waking up or getting out of bed in the morning.

• Lack of motivation for previously enjoyed activities.

• Frequent yawning or sighing due to exhaustion.

• Experiencing physical heaviness or sluggishness.

Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or excessive sleep, are common symptoms of depression. Individuals may find it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, or may sleep excessively as a way to escape their emotional pain. These disturbances can increase feelings of fatigue and make it harder to function throughout the day.

Symptoms:

• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

• Waking up too early or feeling unrested after sleep.

• Excessive sleeping or sleeping for long periods.

• Nightmares or disturbed sleep patterns.

• Insomnia causing daytime fatigue.

Changes in appetite or weight are frequently seen in those struggling with depression. Some individuals may lose interest in food and experience a significant decrease in appetite, while others may use food as a source of comfort, leading to overeating. These shifts can have a direct impact on physical health and emotional well-being.

Symptoms:

• Significant weight loss or gain without trying.

• Loss of appetite or overeating as a form of comfort.

• A strong disinterest in food or meals.

• Sudden cravings for unhealthy or comfort foods.

• Stomachaches or gastrointestinal issues related to stress.

Cognitive dysfunction in depression manifests as difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions. This can lead to confusion, forgetfulness, and a constant cycle of negative, self-critical thoughts. These cognitive issues can disrupt daily tasks and increase feelings of frustration or inadequacy.

Symptoms:

• Trouble concentrating or focusing on tasks.

• Memory lapses or difficulty retaining information.

• Negative or self-critical thoughts that feel overwhelming.

• Indecisiveness or an inability to make choices.

• Constant worries or ruminations that are hard to stop.

Physical symptoms of depression are often overlooked, but it is important to note that depression can impact the body as much as the mind. These can include unexplained aches, pains, gastrointestinal issues, and a general sense of being physically unwell.

Symptoms:

• Unexplained aches and pains (headaches, back pain).

• Reduced sex drive or lack of interest in physical intimacy.

• Slowed movements or speech.

• Frequent illnesses or colds due to a weakened immune system.

• Dizziness or light-headedness during stressful situations.

Withdrawal from social interactions is a common symptom of depression, where individuals may isolate themselves from friends, family, and work. This isolation can be caused by feelings of shame, guilt, or a lack of energy, making it hard to maintain relationships or engage in activities that were once enjoyable.

Symptoms:

• Avoiding family, friends, or colleagues.

• Feeling uncomfortable in social settings or being overly self-conscious.

• Decreased participation in activities once enjoyed.

• Struggling to maintain relationships or communicate openly.

• Isolating oneself for long periods of time.

Thoughts of death or suicide are a serious and distressing symptom of depression. These thoughts may range from a desire to escape emotional pain to contemplating self-harm or ending one’s life.

If this is an emergency or you are in crisis and require immediate assistance, please call 9-1-1, visit your nearest emergency department, or contact your nearest distress center. Crisis Outreach and Support Team: 1-844-646-1700, Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645.

Symptoms:

• Frequent thoughts about dying or self-harm.

• Feeling that life is not worth living or that others would be better off without you.

• Making plans or attempts to end one’s life.

• Preoccupation with death or engaging in risky behaviour with a disregard for consequences.

• Feeling trapped or overwhelmed with no way out of the pain.