Emotional symptoms
Low mood, emptiness, irritability, guilt, hopelessness or emotional numbness can occur. A person does not have to look sad all the time.
Changes in thinking
Concentration, memory, planning and decisions can become harder. Thoughts may turn unusually self-critical, pessimistic or focused on failure.
Physical symptoms
Sleep, appetite, weight, energy, sexual interest and movement may change. These symptoms can also have physical causes that need assessment.
Behavioural changes
People may withdraw from activities and relationships, postpone simple tasks, struggle with self-care or keep functioning only through exceptional effort.
Early signs and when to seek help
A sustained change from the person’s usual pattern matters more than one sign. If several symptoms last around two weeks, worsen or affect daily life, professional assessment is appropriate.
Common questions
There is no fixed order: loss of interest, fatigue, sleep problems, irritability or low mood may appear first.
A persistent change from your usual state is more important than a particular sequence.
Yes. Loss of interest, exhaustion, irritability or physical complaints may be more noticeable than sadness.
Not feeling constantly sad does not rule depression out.
Do not wait if symptoms are severe or safety is a concern.
Depressive episodes commonly involve symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for around two weeks, but help can be sought sooner.
No. One symptom does not confirm depression.
A professional considers the pattern, duration, impact, history and other possible causes.
Medical sources
This material is based on the clinical sources listed below.