Depression Checklist

Recognising depression can be challenging because its symptoms can vary widely and might be mistaken for temporary sadness or stress. However, several key signs can help you determine if you might be experiencing depression.  

When to Seek Help 

If you recognise several of these symptoms in yourself or somebody else, especially if they've lasted for more than two weeks, it’s important to reach out for professional help. A mental health professional, such as a counsellor, can assess your symptoms and provide guidance. Remember, depression is treatable, and seeking help is a vital step toward recovery. Recognising it is the first step, a critical and courageous one. 

1. Persistent Sadness or Low Mood 

If you feel overwhelmingly sad, empty, or hopeless most of the day, nearly every day, this could be a sign of depression. With depression, this feeling often persists for weeks or months, rather than just a few days. 

2. Loss of interest or pleasure 

Losing interest or pleasure in activities that you once enjoyed is a common symptom of depression. These could include hobbies, socialising, or even daily routines. 

3. Changes in appetite or weight 

Depression can cause significant changes in appetite, leading to either weight loss or gain. You might find yourself eating much more or much less than usual. 

4. Sleep disturbances 

Depression often disrupts sleep patterns. This could manifest as insomnia, waking up early and being unable to go back to sleep, or oversleeping and still feeling fatigued. 

5. Fatigue or low energy 

Feeling constantly tired, even after adequate rest, is a common symptom of depression. This fatigue often affects your ability to carry out daily activities. 

6. Difficulty concentrating 

Depression can make it hard to focus, make decisions, or remember things. You might find that tasks that were once easy now feel overwhelming or impossible. 

7. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt 

If you frequently feel worthless, excessively guilty, or harshly criticise yourself, this might be a sign of depression. These feelings are often difficult to shake. 

8. Irritability or anger 

While sadness is the most recognised symptom, depression can also cause irritability, frustration, or anger, sometimes over small matters. You may snap at somebody for no obvious reason or simply not want to be in the company of others. 

9. Physical aches and pains 

Depression can manifest physically, leading to unexplained aches, pains, headaches, or digestive issues that don't seem to have a clear cause and don't improve with treatment. 

10. Thoughts of death or suicide 

If you have recurrent thoughts of death, dying, or suicide, it's crucial to seek help immediately. This is a serious symptom of depression that requires urgent attention. In this instance, call 999, visit A&E, contact your GP – get help immediately.