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[Quiz](https://www.psychcentral.com/quizzes/depression-quiz) - [Symptoms](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-symptoms-major-depressive-disorder) - [Causes](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-causes) - [Treatment](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-treatment) - [Find Support](https://www.psychcentral.com/program/how-to-find-mental-health-support) # Top 10 Signs and Symptoms of Depression  Medically reviewed by [Matthew Boland, PhD](https://www.psychcentral.com/reviewers/matthew-boland-phd) — Written by [Kimberly Drake](https://www.psychcentral.com/authors/kimberly-drake) — Updated on June 23, 2021 Wondering if you might be depressed? Learning the common signs of depression can help you figure out what to do next.  [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fdepression%2Ftop-signs-symptoms-of-depression&media=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.post.rvohealth.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F4%2F2021%2F06%2Fman-looking-out-at-lake-water-double-exposure-1296x728-header-1024x575.jpg&description=Top%2010%20Signs%20of%20Depression%20%7C%20Psych%20Central "Share on Pinterest") Eugenio Marongiu/Getty Images Depression is a mental health condition that’s often misunderstood. If you have [depression](https://psychcentral.com/depression/depression), you may feel despair that prevents you from enjoying activities you once liked, have trouble sleeping, or find it hard to make decisions. You can also experience physical symptoms like fatigue. Even though more than [264 million people](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression) around the world live with depression, it can look different from person to person. It can sometimes be challenging to diagnose, since people experience different symptoms and different [types of depression](https://psychcentral.com/depression/depression-symptoms-major-depressive-disorder#types-of-depression). If you’re feeling down, knowing the common signs and [effects of depression](https://psychcentral.com/depression/side-effects-of-untreated-depression-what-to-look-for) can help you figure out if you’re experiencing something more than a brief case of the blues. ## [10 everyday signs of depression]() If you’ve been having symptoms — like low mood, loss of interest, and sleep issues — for most of the day for more than 2 weeks, you may be [dealing with depression](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-facts). While two people diagnosed with the same [type of depression](https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/depression/types-of-depression) won’t have exactly the same symptoms, there are several depression symptoms that are common. Here are 10 of the most prevalent (in no particular order): #### 1\. Persistent low mood Many of us [feel down](https://psychcentral.com/lib/why-feeling-sad-is-actually-good#1) from time to time, but when this feeling just won’t go away, it may mean you’re experiencing depression. You might feel like you’re continually out of sorts. It’s also common for [anxiety symptoms](https://psychcentral.com/anxiety/anxiety-disorders#symptoms) to occur alongside depression, as well as feelings of [impending doom](https://psychcentral.com/depression/what-is-existential-depression). Sometimes, people with depression describe themselves as feeling [numb](https://psychcentral.com/depression/i-feel-nothing-emotional-numbness) or “flatlined.” They may have difficulty mustering up an emotional response to things that happen to them — whether good or bad. #### 2\. Loss of interest or pleasure in things you once enjoyed “What’s the point?” and “Why bother?” are phrases you might say describe your mood for a few weeks straight. Work, social activities, and even simple household chores may seem pointless to you. Maybe you typically love to do DIY projects or enjoy going to the local coffee shop with friends on the weekends. But if you have depression, these things might not appeal to you suddenly. You may find it challenging to muster up the [energy](https://psychcentral.com/depression/depression-low-energy) to do them, or just don’t have the desire. #### 3\. Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness Many people with depression can feel [overwhelming guilt](https://psychcentral.com/blog/overcoming-guilt-in-depression#1) about past actions or events, or even feel guilty about being depressed. You might also experience [low self-esteem](https://psychcentral.com/blog/8-common-patterns-of-low-self-esteem#1) and self-loathing. You may also feel hopeless — like there’s nothing you can do to feel better. #### 4\. Loss of sex drive When you’re depressed, your desire for sex may wane. You may start to wonder what happened to your [sex drive](https://greatist.com/live/depression-messed-with-my-sex-life-heres-what-i-did-about-it#2). This can lead to more guilty feelings, especially if your [partner](https://psychcentral.com/depression/how-depression-affects-relationships) is having difficulty understanding why you no longer want this type of intimacy. According to a [2018 study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6278224/), difficulties with sexual function are a common but underreported sign of depression. The researchers found that 62.5% of the men who participated had problems with sexual functioning. #### 5\. Decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling slowed down Most people think of the mental and emotional symptoms of depression, but it can cause physical symptoms, too. These physical symptoms often mimic other health conditions. Many people may experience low energy and fatigue. It can be a “bone tired” feeling that just won’t go away despite getting enough sleep. If you’re depressed, you might also feel like everything is happening in slow motion, yet you still can’t keep up because of overwhelming mental and physical exhaustion. If you experience [catatonia](https://psychcentral.com/pro/new-therapist/2020/07/signs-of-major-depression-subtypes-catatonic-features#1) with depression, you may feel stuck or in a perpetual state of being “paused” that can alarm those around you. #### 6\. Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions Your ability to focus can become impaired when depression arises. You may feel like you have never-ending brain fog or worry you’re losing your ability to “think straight.” You may also [forget](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-and-memory-loss) essential appointments or work-related tasks, and have trouble making even simple decisions. #### 7\. Trouble sleeping Depression can cause your [sleep habits](https://psychcentral.com/blog/how-to-get-a-good-nights-sleep-even-when-youre-depressed) to change radically. For example, you may develop [insomnia](https://psychcentral.com/disorders/insomnia-symptoms/). You might be unable to fall asleep as easily as you once did, or wake up exceptionally early when you used to be a late riser. Your sleep could also be disrupted, causing you to wake up throughout the night. Or instead of being unable to sleep, you might develop [hypersomnia](https://psychcentral.com/disorders/hypersomnia-symptoms/) (aka oversleeping). You could sleep for 10 hours straight and still not feel well-rested. Any sleep problems can lead to issues keeping up with daily tasks. #### 8\. Changes to appetite or weight Depression can commonly cause changes to your weight and eating habits. Some people might have an increased appetite, while others lose all desire for food. You may also gain or [lose weight without trying](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/weight-loss-depression). #### 9\. Restlessness or irritability Having depression is exhausting for the mind *and* body. You could develop a low tolerance for other people’s behaviors, becoming irritable or [short-tempered](https://psychcentral.com/blog/why-so-angry-irritable-it-might-be-depression#1). You may sometimes lash out at loved ones unexpectedly and then feel guilty for doing so. You can also feel restless when depressed. This might lead you to jump from one thought or action to another. You could be restless and not even notice it. #### 10\. Suicidal thoughts or attempts If you’re depressed, you may start to have thoughts about not wanting to be alive anymore. This is a serious symptom that means it’s time to [seek help](https://psychcentral.com/lib/suicide-prevention-hotline-number). Suicidal ideation is when someone ruminates on ending their life. This might look like drawing or writing about suicide, closing social media accounts in one sitting, or giving away keepsake photos or rainy day funds. If you notice signs of suicide risk, you can contact a hotline for support day or night: [Text or call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or chat at 988Lifeline.org.](https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/) [Text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741](sms:741741) Healthgrades is owned by RVO Health. By clicking on this link, we may receive a commission. [Learn more.](https://psychcentral.com/about/brand-and-product-vetting) ## [When to see a doctor]() How do you know when it’s time to schedule a visit with a doctor or mental health pro to discuss your symptoms? The short answer? If your symptoms are distressing or interfere with your work, family, or social life. If you think you may be depressed but are still uncertain, there are [online screening tools](https://psychcentral.com/quizzes/depression-quiz) that can help you with a starting point. But any symptoms of depression are reason enough to talk with a healthcare professional. Signs of depression can also occur with [other health conditions](https://psychcentral.com/blog/the-many-conditions-that-mimic-depression#1), so it can be a good idea to rule those out first. If you do receive a diagnosis of depression, you’re not alone. There are many [treatment options](https://psychcentral.com/depression/depression-treatment) that can help you feel better. 3 sourcescollapsed - Depression. (2017). <https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Depression/Treatment> - Depression. (2020). <https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression> - Thakurdesai A, et al. (2018). A prospective study on sexual dysfunctions in depressed males and the response to treatment. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6278224/> [FEEDBACK:]()  Medically reviewed by [Matthew Boland, PhD](https://www.psychcentral.com/reviewers/matthew-boland-phd) — Written by [Kimberly Drake](https://www.psychcentral.com/authors/kimberly-drake) — Updated on June 23, 2021 ## RELATED - [Depression Hotline Numbers: Here’s Where To Get Help](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-hotline-numbers?utm_source=ReadNext) - [5 Facts About Depression](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-statistics?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Your Sleep and Depression: What’s the Connection?](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/your-sleep-and-depression-whats-the-connection?utm_source=ReadNext) - [The 9 Best Online Depression Support Groups in 2022](https://www.psychcentral.com/health/best-online-depression-support-groups?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What to Do When Depression Makes You Feel Worthless](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/worthlessness-and-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) ### Read this next - [Depression Hotline Numbers: Here’s Where To Get Help](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-hotline-numbers?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Danielle Wade, LCSW](https://www.psychcentral.com/medical-team) [Depression hotlines offer immediate help that's private and confidential. Volunteers and counselors are there to assist you 24/7 with any crisis or…](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-hotline-numbers?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-hotline-numbers?utm_source=ReadNext) - [5 Facts About Depression](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-statistics?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Danielle Wade, LCSW](https://www.psychcentral.com/medical-team) [Depression affects 3.8% of the global population. Understanding prevalence can help improve prevention strategies, treatment options, and access to…](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-statistics?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-statistics?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Your Sleep and Depression: What’s the Connection?](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/your-sleep-and-depression-whats-the-connection?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Jeffrey Ditzell, DO](https://www.psychcentral.com/medical-team) [The connection between depression and sleep may look more like a spiderweb than a straight line. So where do you start when you’re looking to soothe…](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/your-sleep-and-depression-whats-the-connection?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/your-sleep-and-depression-whats-the-connection?utm_source=ReadNext) - [The 9 Best Online Depression Support Groups in 2022](https://www.psychcentral.com/health/best-online-depression-support-groups?utm_source=ReadNext) [Having support can make a world of difference when you live with depression. Here are the 9 best online depression support groups of 2022.](https://www.psychcentral.com/health/best-online-depression-support-groups?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.psychcentral.com/health/best-online-depression-support-groups?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What to Do When Depression Makes You Feel Worthless](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/worthlessness-and-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Matthew Boland, PhD](https://www.psychcentral.com/medical-team) [If depression is making you feel worthless, know that you're not alone. Here are some tips to help you work through your feelings and boost…](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/worthlessness-and-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/worthlessness-and-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) - [How Long Does Depression Last?](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/how-long-does-depression-last?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Karin Gepp, PsyD](https://www.psychcentral.com/medical-team) [If you're living with depressive symptoms, you might wonder how long depression lasts or if it'll go away on its own. The answer is, it depends…](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/how-long-does-depression-last?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/how-long-does-depression-last?utm_source=ReadNext) - [8 Hidden Signs of Depression](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/hidden-signs-of-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Kendra Kubala, PsyD](https://www.psychcentral.com/medical-team) [Lots of people walk through life trying to hide behind a smile. We look how to spot the signs and help someone with hidden depression.](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/hidden-signs-of-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/hidden-signs-of-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) - [10 Tips for Making a Daily Routine with Depression](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/daily-routine-for-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) [Creating — and sticking to — some reliable daily routines may help improve depression symptoms. Here are 10 evidence-based things you can try.](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/daily-routine-for-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/daily-routine-for-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) - [All About High-Functioning Depression](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/what-is-high-functioning-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Vara Saripalli, Psy.D.](https://www.psychcentral.com/medical-team) [High functioning depression might explain why you can go through the motions of every day but still feel something is going on within you. Here's all…](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/what-is-high-functioning-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/what-is-high-functioning-depression?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Podcast: Mental Health Isn’t a Movie: Olivia Nash on changing Hollywood’s Narrative](https://www.psychcentral.com/blog/podcast-mental-health-isnt-a-movie-olivia-nash-on-changing-hollywoods-narrative?utm_source=ReadNext) [A filmmaker challenges Hollywood’s mental health tropes with radical authenticity. Listen to the Inside Mental Health podcast episode right now\!](https://www.psychcentral.com/blog/podcast-mental-health-isnt-a-movie-olivia-nash-on-changing-hollywoods-narrative?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.psychcentral.com/blog/podcast-mental-health-isnt-a-movie-olivia-nash-on-changing-hollywoods-narrative?utm_source=ReadNext) © 2026 Psych Central, a Healthline Media Company. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. 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## If you’ve been having symptoms — like low mood, loss of interest, and sleep issues — for most of the day for more than 2 weeks, you may be [dealing with depression](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-facts). While two people diagnosed with the same [type of depression](https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/depression/types-of-depression) won’t have exactly the same symptoms, there are several depression symptoms that are common. Here are 10 of the most prevalent (in no particular order): 1\. Persistent low mood Many of us [feel down](https://psychcentral.com/lib/why-feeling-sad-is-actually-good#1) from time to time, but when this feeling just won’t go away, it may mean you’re experiencing depression. You might feel like you’re continually out of sorts. It’s also common for [anxiety symptoms](https://psychcentral.com/anxiety/anxiety-disorders#symptoms) to occur alongside depression, as well as feelings of [impending doom](https://psychcentral.com/depression/what-is-existential-depression). Sometimes, people with depression describe themselves as feeling [numb](https://psychcentral.com/depression/i-feel-nothing-emotional-numbness) or “flatlined.” They may have difficulty mustering up an emotional response to things that happen to them — whether good or bad. 2\. Loss of interest or pleasure in things you once enjoyed “What’s the point?” and “Why bother?” are phrases you might say describe your mood for a few weeks straight. Work, social activities, and even simple household chores may seem pointless to you. Maybe you typically love to do DIY projects or enjoy going to the local coffee shop with friends on the weekends. But if you have depression, these things might not appeal to you suddenly. You may find it challenging to muster up the [energy](https://psychcentral.com/depression/depression-low-energy) to do them, or just don’t have the desire. 3\. Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness Many people with depression can feel [overwhelming guilt](https://psychcentral.com/blog/overcoming-guilt-in-depression#1) about past actions or events, or even feel guilty about being depressed. You might also experience [low self-esteem](https://psychcentral.com/blog/8-common-patterns-of-low-self-esteem#1) and self-loathing. You may also feel hopeless — like there’s nothing you can do to feel better. 4\. Loss of sex drive When you’re depressed, your desire for sex may wane. You may start to wonder what happened to your [sex drive](https://greatist.com/live/depression-messed-with-my-sex-life-heres-what-i-did-about-it#2). This can lead to more guilty feelings, especially if your [partner](https://psychcentral.com/depression/how-depression-affects-relationships) is having difficulty understanding why you no longer want this type of intimacy. According to a [2018 study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6278224/), difficulties with sexual function are a common but underreported sign of depression. The researchers found that 62.5% of the men who participated had problems with sexual functioning. 5\. Decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling slowed down Most people think of the mental and emotional symptoms of depression, but it can cause physical symptoms, too. These physical symptoms often mimic other health conditions. Many people may experience low energy and fatigue. It can be a “bone tired” feeling that just won’t go away despite getting enough sleep. If you’re depressed, you might also feel like everything is happening in slow motion, yet you still can’t keep up because of overwhelming mental and physical exhaustion. If you experience [catatonia](https://psychcentral.com/pro/new-therapist/2020/07/signs-of-major-depression-subtypes-catatonic-features#1) with depression, you may feel stuck or in a perpetual state of being “paused” that can alarm those around you. 6\. Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions Your ability to focus can become impaired when depression arises. You may feel like you have never-ending brain fog or worry you’re losing your ability to “think straight.” You may also [forget](https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-and-memory-loss) essential appointments or work-related tasks, and have trouble making even simple decisions. 7\. Trouble sleeping Depression can cause your [sleep habits](https://psychcentral.com/blog/how-to-get-a-good-nights-sleep-even-when-youre-depressed) to change radically. For example, you may develop [insomnia](https://psychcentral.com/disorders/insomnia-symptoms/). You might be unable to fall asleep as easily as you once did, or wake up exceptionally early when you used to be a late riser. Your sleep could also be disrupted, causing you to wake up throughout the night. Or instead of being unable to sleep, you might develop [hypersomnia](https://psychcentral.com/disorders/hypersomnia-symptoms/) (aka oversleeping). You could sleep for 10 hours straight and still not feel well-rested. Any sleep problems can lead to issues keeping up with daily tasks. 8\. Changes to appetite or weight Depression can commonly cause changes to your weight and eating habits. Some people might have an increased appetite, while others lose all desire for food. You may also gain or [lose weight without trying](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/weight-loss-depression). 9\. Restlessness or irritability Having depression is exhausting for the mind *and* body. You could develop a low tolerance for other people’s behaviors, becoming irritable or [short-tempered](https://psychcentral.com/blog/why-so-angry-irritable-it-might-be-depression#1). You may sometimes lash out at loved ones unexpectedly and then feel guilty for doing so. You can also feel restless when depressed. This might lead you to jump from one thought or action to another. You could be restless and not even notice it. 10\. Suicidal thoughts or attempts If you’re depressed, you may start to have thoughts about not wanting to be alive anymore. This is a serious symptom that means it’s time to [seek help](https://psychcentral.com/lib/suicide-prevention-hotline-number). Suicidal ideation is when someone ruminates on ending their life. This might look like drawing or writing about suicide, closing social media accounts in one sitting, or giving away keepsake photos or rainy day funds. If you notice signs of suicide risk, you can contact a hotline for support day or night: Healthgrades is owned by RVO Health. By clicking on this link, we may receive a commission. [Learn more.](https://psychcentral.com/about/brand-and-product-vetting) ## How do you know when it’s time to schedule a visit with a doctor or mental health pro to discuss your symptoms? The short answer? If your symptoms are distressing or interfere with your work, family, or social life. If you think you may be depressed but are still uncertain, there are [online screening tools](https://psychcentral.com/quizzes/depression-quiz) that can help you with a starting point. But any symptoms of depression are reason enough to talk with a healthcare professional. Signs of depression can also occur with [other health conditions](https://psychcentral.com/blog/the-many-conditions-that-mimic-depression#1), so it can be a good idea to rule those out first. If you do receive a diagnosis of depression, you’re not alone. There are many [treatment options](https://psychcentral.com/depression/depression-treatment) that can help you feel better.