What are the main signs and symptoms of depression?

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•Last Updated: October 25, 2023

The symptoms of depression vary widely, such as sleeping too much or too little. This is one reason why diagnosing depression can be a challenge. Other symptoms include lost interest in favorite activities, feeling hopeless, and under-or overeating.^[1] Symptoms may also vary by sex. For example, men with depression report higher rates of anger, aggression, substance use, and risk-taking compared to women.^[2]

Last Updated:October 25, 2023

References

^The content of this page was partially adapted from MedlinePlus of the National Library of Medicine accessed 21 April 2022
^Martin LA, Neighbors HW, Griffith DMThe experience of symptoms of depression in men vs women: analysis of the National Comorbidity Survey Replication.JAMA Psychiatry.(2013-Oct)