How to Identify Clinical Depression Symptoms

Clinical depression is a serious medical disorder that severely affects the way a person feels, thinks and acts. The disorder causes prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness and guilt, and results in a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. Emotionally crippling, clinical depression can cause a variety of physical symptoms that may make it impossible to work or function.According to the American Psychiatric Association, more than 17 million Americans suffer from clinical depression each year. The disorder affects people of all ages, genders and backgrounds, and can result in suicide if not quickly diagnosed and treated. Identifying the symptoms of clinical depression early can make a tremendous difference in the treatment and prognosis of the disease.

Instructions

• 1

  Research the risk factors for developing clinical depression, such as family history, environmental stressors and substance abuse. While not everyone who has one or more risk factors will develop clinical depression, the incidence is higher among people who have a personal or family history of mood disorders or substance abuse.

• 2

  Evaluate any emotional symptoms that may be a result of clinical depression. A persistent sad mood, or feelings of emptiness that continue for two or more weeks, is a symptom of clinical depression. Other emotional signs and symptoms include crying for no reason, feelings of hopeless or guilt, irritability, increased anxiety or agitation, and thoughts of death or suicide.

• 3

  Watch for any physical symptoms that are commonly seen in people suffering from clinical depression, such as changes in sleeping habits and appetite, decreased energy, headaches, digestive problems, and weight gain or loss.

• 4

  Consider the possibility that certain behavioral symptoms--such as an obvious loss of interest in activities and hobbies, difficulty concentrating and making decisions, and neglect of responsibilities and appearance--are all possible signs of clinical depression. Short-term stress can result in a temporary loss of enjoyment in activities such as sex, sports or school, but when this symptom persists, it could indicate a depressive disorder.

• 5

  Speak with a doctor or mental-health professional to schedule a psychological exam. There are a number of different psychiatric disorders that cause symptoms of clinical depression, and each requires different medications and treatments. Distinguishing between the various depressive disorders can only be done by someone trained to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders.