The term "depression" can be confusing since it is often used to describe normal emotional reactions. At the same time, the illness may be hard to recognize because its symptoms may be so easily attributed to other causes. People tend to deny the existence of depression by saying things like, "She has a right to be depressed! Look at what she's gone through." This attitude fails to recognize that people can go through tremendous hardships and stress without developing depression, and that those who suffer from depression can and should seek treatment.

Nearly everyone suffering from depression has pervasive feelings of sadness. In addition, depressed people may feel helpless, hopeless and irritable. You should seek professional help if you or someone you know has had four or more of the following symptoms continually or most of the time for more than two weeks:

• Noticeable change of appetite, with either significant weight loss (not attributable to dieting) or weight gain.
• Noticeable change in sleeping patterns, such as fitful sleep, inability to sleep, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much.
• Loss of interest and pleasure in activities formerly enjoyed.
• Loss of energy, fatigue.
• Feelings of worthlessness.
• Persistent feelings of hopelessness.
• Feelings of inappropriate guilt.
• Inability to concentrate or think, indecisiveness.
• Recurring thoughts of death or suicide, wishing to die, or attempting suicide. (Note: people suffering this symptom should receive treatment immediately!)

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