People who are diagnosed with clinical depression have a combination of symptoms from the following list:

• Feelings of hopelessness, even when there is reason to be hopeful
• Fatigue or low energy
• Greatly reduced interest or pleasure in most regular activities
• Low self-esteem
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Excessive or inappropriate guilt
• Reduced ability to think or concentrate
• Indecisiveness
• Thinking distorted thoughts; having an unrealistic view of life
• Gain or loss of weight without dieting
• Change in appetite
• Change in sleeping patterns
• Recurrent thoughts of death
• Suicidal thoughts
• A specific plan for committing suicide
• A suicide attempt
• Feelings of restlessness or being slowed down

When a person is suffering from depression, these symptoms cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. This means that the person’s family and social relationships and work life are impaired. When a person is suffering from depression, symptoms such as these are not the result of a chronic psychotic disorder, a general medical condition, or bereavement.

Depression does not seem to be related to ethnicity, education, income, or marital status. It strikes slightly more women than men. Some researchers believe that depression strikes more often in women who have a history of emotional and sexual abuse, economic deprivation, or are dependent on others. There seems to be a genetic link. Depression is more common among parents, children, and siblings of people who are diagnosed with depression. The average age at the onset of a depressive episode is the mid-twenties. However, people born more recently are being diagnosed at a younger age.

If you or someone you know is depressed and exhibits any of the following signs, it is extremely important to seek the assistance of a medical or mental health professional:

1. Thoughts about death or suicide. This is always dangerous, and you should see a professional therapist immediately.
2. Symptoms of depression continue for a long time. When this occurs, you may need professional help. Acute responses to events are normal, but they should not last beyond a reasonable time.
3. Your ability to function is impaired by your depression. Seek help before your life situation deteriorates to a serious level.
4. You have become severely isolated. An isolated person has no one with whom to reality test. Seek someone out to share your thoughts and feelings with.
5. Depressive symptoms have become severe.