Depression

How to Tell If What You’re Feeling Might Be Depression

You might be dealing with depression if low mood, numbness, loss of interest, exhaustion, sleep changes, hopelessness, or difficulty functioning persist and interfere with your life.

Key takeaways

  • Depression is not always obvious sadness.
  • Duration, intensity, and impact on daily life matter.
  • Self-screening can be a starting point, but it is not a diagnosis.
  • Suicidal thoughts or feeling unsafe require immediate support.

What may be happening

Depression can affect mood, energy, sleep, appetite, concentration, self-worth, and interest in things that used to matter. Some people feel sad. Others feel flat, angry, slowed down, or unable to start basic tasks.

What can help

Depression can overlap with grief, burnout, trauma, anxiety, substance use, medical conditions, and major life stress. A professional can help sort out what is happening.

When to get support

Consider professional support if symptoms persistently interfere with daily life, relationships, or safety. Seek urgent help if you are having thoughts of self-harm or feel unable to stay safe; in the U. S. , call or text 988. Seek support if you feel hopeless, unable to function, disconnected from people, or like life is not worth living.

If you may not be safe, call or text 988 in the U. S. or contact emergency services.

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