Find more hope in life

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Every person may feel down, sad or upset occasionally. If these feelings are only short-lived and pass within a couple of days, it is normal. However, when people have depression, it interferes with their daily lives and distorts the way they see themselves, their lives and people around them. Generally speaking, people who have depression usually have a more negative attitude and feel that they are not able to solve a problem or situation in a positive manner.

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Depression is a common but serious illness. Many people with a depressive illness can improve with the assistance of counselling, psychotherapies, medications and other methods. 


The severity of depression depends on how much it impacts on a person’s daily life.

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• mild depression has some impact on a person’s daily life

• moderate depression has a significant impact on a person’s daily life

• severe depression makes it almost impossible for a person to get through daily life. 

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Common signs and symptoms of Depression

The symptoms of depression can be complex. The severity, frequency and duration of symptoms may vary depending on the individual and his/her particular illness. Hence, people with depressive illnesses do not all experience the same symptoms. 

 

 

Quick Self-Check!

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There are many symptoms of depression and it is unlikely that an individual would experience every one of the symptoms listed below. However, if you experience some of the symptoms for most of the day, every day for more than two weeks, you are recommended to seek professional help.

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• Continuously feeling sad, anxious or "empty"

• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism

• Feelings of guilt

• Feelings of worthlessness

• Feelings of helplessness

• Feeling tearful

• Having low self-esteem

• Feeling irritable or intolerant of others

• Loss of motivation or interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex

• Fatigue and decreased energy

• Having difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions

• Having disturbed sleep (for example, difficulty falling asleep at night or waking up early in the morning), insomnia or excessive sleeping

• Experiencing a change in appetite or weight (usually decrease but may increase)

• Having suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming oneself or even suicidal attempts

• Having aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with medical treatment.

• Not doing well at work

• Participating in fewer social activities and avoiding contact with friends

• Having difficulties in home and family life