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Signs and Symptoms of Depression

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

Signs and Symptoms 

Not everyone who is depressed experiences every symptom. Some people experience only a few symptoms, some people suffer many. The severity of symptoms varies among individuals and also over time. 


As you read through these signs and symptoms, identify those that describe what you are feeling:

 

 

  • Persistent, sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
  • Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
  • Decreased energy, fatigue, being “slowed down”
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
  • Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
  • Appetite and/or weight changes
  • Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts
  • Restlessness, irritability
  • Persistent physical symptoms

If you have identified one or more of these signs and symptoms, talk to your doctor. You can also contact a behavioral health provider directly or call WHA's behavioral health partner, Optum at: 800.765.6820 or go online at Optum's LiveandWorkWell Webpage to search for mental health providers, and see their helpful videos on how to choose a therapist. 

To learn more about depression and its symptoms, visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.

 

Depression Screening

The following questions can help to determine if you or someone you know is depressed. If you answer "yes" to both questions, further evaluation and treatment may be necessary. 

 

  1. During the past month, have you often been bothered by feeling down, depressed, or hopeless?
  2. During the past month, have you often been bothered by little interest or pleasure in doing things? 

It is important to talk to your doctor about receiving the appropriate care. You can also contact your behavioral health provider or Optum Behavioral Health at 800.765.6820 (Medicare members, call 855.857.9748) to discuss care options for depression. 

 

Source: Whooley MA, Avins AL, Miranda J, Browner WS Case-finding instruments for depression: two questions are as good as many. J Gen Intern Med. 1997; 12:439-445