It is quite natural to feel blue once in a while, but it usually lasts just for a few days. That said, depression can cause these feelings to continue for longer. The condition can cause a wide range of symptoms, and it often gets in the way of one’s daily life. Understanding the symptoms of depression can facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment, so here are some signs that one should watch out for:

1. Emptiness
Persistent feelings of sadness and anxiety are common signs that indicate depression, and one does not see themselves getting better in such cases. Talking to a person one trusts can help overcome these feelings, or one can approach a certified medical professional.

2. Guilty
One may feel miserable and develop feelings of worthlessness for anything and everything in their life, right down to their existence. Also, one tends to think highly about their failures, regardless of their intensity. Depression is characterized by severe helplessness to control the feeling of guilt.

3. Hopeless
Among the common symptoms of depression are high levels of pessimism, which may extend into both the personal and professional realms of one’s life. This is where patients may develop thoughts of self-harm and even act upon them in severe cases.

4. Highly irritable
The negative feelings of emptiness, guilt, and hopelessness naturally pave the way for irritability. As a result, one may become crankier than usual.

5. Lack of interest in activities one like earlier
Activities that once intrigued an individual no longer appeal to them in this condition. Depression is characterized by very little desire to pursue what one considered their passion. One may also show a lack of interest in eating, and depression often results in low libido.

6. Constant fatigue and lethargy
Patients may feel tired with simple things, and even thinking and making decisions takes a lot of mental effort, causing one to feel extremely fatigued. Additionally, it becomes extremely difficult for one to go about their daily routine.

7. Lack of concentration
Frivolous activities like watching television or reading a magazine could seem difficult for people with depression. Often, one may not even remember or recall such activities.

8. Changes in sleep pattern
Another common symptom of depression is erratic sleeping habits. Patients might either wake up too early or find it difficult to fall or stay asleep. On the other hand, some tend to sleep for longer hours and still wake up tired the next morning.

9. Erratic appetite
People with depressive symptoms tend to either overeat or not eat at all, which can result in excessive weight gain or loss. This can also lead to the development of several physical health issues.

1o. Body pains
People with depression often complain of frequent and persistent pain like cramps and headaches. Also, patients have a weak digestive system.