The symptoms of depression vary largely between patients and can range from mild, unnoticeable sadness to severely disabling symptoms. Not all people experience all the symptoms discussed here; the symptoms vary from patient to patient and also differ in severity and duration. Additionally some people have these symptoms persisting for long periods whereas others may have repetitive, sporadic spells lasting for some time.

It must be borne in mind that depression not only affects the patient but also burdens his family and friends; it ultimately even affects the patient's quality of work.

Depression can present as a combination of any of the symptoms mentioned here and it significantly affects the normal functioning of the person:

Sadness, grief that persists

Feeling of 'emptiness' in general

Spells of crying (which may be causeless many times)

Irritability, getting annoyed easily

Activities that were once pleasurable are no longer enjoyed or there is lack of interest in the same

Low energy level

Negative thoughts that are persistent

Decreased libido, loss of interest in sex

Utter hopelessness

Difficulty in focusing or concentrating on work or daily activities

Indecisiveness

Suicidal thoughts; patient may even attempt suicide

Restlessness

Feeling of being worthless or of no use

Fatigue, lethargy

Excessive sleepiness or lack of sleep; early morning wakefulness

Changes in appetite - loss or increase in appetite

Weight gain or loss that is not intentional

Feeling helpless

Persistent, unexplained complaints like backache, headache, digestion problems, general cramps, etc. These usually do not respond to conventional treatments.