Recognizing Depression Symptoms
Depression is a mental health condition that involves a prolonged low mood and loss of pleasure or interest in activities. It can impact a person's thoughts, feelings, behavior, and well-being. Depression can happen to anyone, including children, and results from social, psychological, and biological factors. People who experience abuse, losses, and other adverse events are more likely to develop depression (World Health Organization, 2025). Common symptoms of depression include:
Persistent sadness, anxiety, or "empty" mood: Individuals may feel a continuous sense of sadness or anxiety.
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed: Known as anhedonia, this involves losing interest in hobbies or activities that were previously pleasurable.
Changes in appetite or weight: Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite, can occur without intentional dieting.
Sleep disturbances: This includes insomnia (difficulty sleeping) or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping).
Fatigue or decreased energy: A persistent feeling of tiredness or lack of energy, even without physical exertion.
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt: Individuals may experience inappropriate guilt or feel worthless.
Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions: Depression can impair cognitive functions, making it hard to focus or decide.
If you’re experiencing several of these symptoms for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. stomachaches.
It is also important to recognize that depression in adults and children is similar in the core feeling of persistent sadness; however, it manifests differently. Children often display irritability, anger, and behavioral changes such as withdrawal and complain of headaches.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.) Text Revisions (DSM-5-TR). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association Publishing.
American Psychiatric Association (2025). Psychiatry.org - What Is Depression?
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (2025). Depression (major depressive disorder) - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
National Institute of Mental Health (2025). Depression - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
World Health Organization (2025). Depression
