Everybody gets sad sometimes, usually in response to loss, hurt feelings, and painful circumstances, but as this sadness is processed an equilibrium of emotion returns.

Depression is quite different though, as symptoms can last for more than two weeks. Unrelenting sadness may be the sign most recognizable and associated with depression, but depression can be reflected in other symptoms that include:

• Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness

• Irritability, angry outbursts, or a low tolerance to frustration

• Loss of interest or ability to enjoy your usual fun activities

• Sleep disturbance, whether inability to sleep (insomnia) or sleeping too much (hypersomnia)

• Fatigue/lack of energy; everything feels overwhelming

• Loss of interest in eating/weight loss or overeating/weight gain

• Anxiety, agitation, and restlessness

• Slowed thinking, moving, or talking

• Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, a focus on past failure, and self-blame

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering things, and making decisions

• Physical pain such as headaches or back pain that has no clear cause.

Please reach out for help if you or a loved one are experiencing depression.