Many of us may have suffered from depression, but may not be aware of it.
Table 1. What are the symptoms of depression?
- Feeling sad
- Feeling empty
- Difficulty enjoying things
- Restlessness, irritability
- Difficulty with concentration and memory
- Reduced performance in work/ school
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Difficulty sleeping, fatigue or oversleeping
- Headaches, pain, aches, digestive problems
- Suicidal thoughts, attempts
- Family history of psychiatric illness
Depression can present differently in women and men. Women present mostly with sadness, while men may appear angry and tend to use alcohol and drugs more. Some people are also more vulnerable to depression (table 2)