Do depressed people make eye contact?

People who are experiencing depression may show reduced eye contact as a symptom of their condition. This can occur for various reasons:

Reduced Social Engagement: Depression can lead to a decreased interest in social interactions, including making eye contact, which is an essential part of social communication.

Loss of Interest and Pleasure: Anhedonia, the loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, is a common symptom of depression. This can extend to social interactions, leading to decreased motivation to engage in eye contact.

Cognitive Impairments: Depression can affect cognitive functions, including concentration, attention, and memory. This can make it challenging for individuals to maintain eye contact consistently during conversations.

Avoidance Behavior: Some individuals with depression may engage in avoidance behaviors as a way of coping with their emotional distress. This can include avoiding eye contact to mitigate feelings of social anxiety or discomfort.

Low Self-Esteem: Depressed individuals may experience low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness. This can make them feel self-conscious or ashamed, further reducing their inclination to make eye contact.

Negative Self-Perception: People with depression often have negative self-perceptions and may believe that others judge them negatively. This can make them reluctant to make eye contact out of fear of rejection or criticism.

Reduced eye contact, however, is not a symptom exclusive to depression and can also be associated with other conditions, cultural norms, or personal preferences. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent depressive symptoms, it's important to seek professional help from a mental health provider for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.