What Are Symptoms of Depression?
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people each year. While sadness and low energy are normal reactions to life’s challenges, depression is different. It lasts longer, feels heavier, and interferes with daily life. Understanding the symptoms of depression can help individuals and families recognize when professional support may be needed.
At Lindner Center of Hope, clinicians and researchers are dedicated to improving outcomes for those experiencing depression through accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.
Common Depression Symptoms
According to mental health experts, a depressive episode involves a combination of symptoms that last at least two weeks and represent a noticeable change from a person’s usual functioning. At least one of these symptoms is typically either persistent sadness or loss of interest in usual activities.
Emotional and Cognitive Changes
Depression often affects how a person feels and thinks. Symptoms may include:
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or tearfulness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies, social activities, or work
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Physical and Behavioral Changes
Depression can also cause physical symptoms that affect energy and routine:
- Fatigue or low energy nearly every day
- Significant changes in appetite or weight
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Restlessness or slowed movement
- Decline in performance at work, school, or home
When several of these depression symptoms occur together and persist, it may indicate a major depressive episode.
Remembering the Signs
A helpful way to remember the core signs of depression is through the acronym SIGECAPS:
- S: Sleep – increased sleep disturbances or sleeping more than usual
- I: Interest – loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed
- G: Guilt – increased feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or self blame
- E: Energy – decreased energy level
- C: Concentration – difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- A: Appetite – lower or increased appetite
- P: Psychomotor – slowed movements or increased restlessness
- S: Suicidal ideation – thoughts of death or suicide
If these patterns persist for two weeks or more, it may be time to seek professional evaluation.
Causes of Depression
There is no single cause of depression. Instead, it develops from a combination of factors, including:
- Genetics: A family history of mood disorders can increase risk.
- Biology: Changes in brain chemistry and hormones can affect mood regulation.
- Medical conditions: Chronic illness, thyroid issues, or certain medications may contribute.
- Life experiences: Stress, trauma, or major life changes can trigger or worsen symptoms.
Understanding these causes helps clinicians create individualized treatment plans that address both emotional and physical health.
Treatment and Support
Depression is treatable, and most people improve with a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle support. At Lindner Center of Hope, patients receive care tailored to their needs, including:
- Outpatient therapy and psychiatric consultations
- Medication management
- Intensive programs for those needing more structured care
- Advanced therapies such as neuromodulation (ECT and TMS) as well as novel medication options such as esketamine for treatment-resistant depression
These services help individuals manage symptoms, restore balance, and return to fulfilling daily lives.
If you suspect that you or someone you know is struggling with the symptoms of depression, the Lindner Center of Hope offers expert diagnosis and treatment options. Read more about the signs of depression or contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
Content reviewed by:
Nik Raju, MD, Staff Psychiatrist at Lindner Center of Hope
Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience at University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
