Depression can present itself in many different ways.  Some common signs of depression include the following.

1. sadness, loneliness, or emptiness
2. loss of interest in things normally enjoyed
3. tiredness and chronic low energy
4. difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating, making decisions or remembering
5. feelings of worthlessness and guilt
6. irritability, frustration or anger
7. restlessness and agitation
8. sleep disturbances
9. change of appetite
10. recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

There is also something called hidden depression or “functional depression” where the individual with depression may not experience the common signs of depression, but the depression manifests itself it other, less obvious, ways, such as the following.

1. perfectionism with a constant, critical inner voice
2. heightened or excessive sense of responsibility
3. difficulty with accepting and expressing painful emotions
4. worry or need for control over self and environment
5. intense focus on tasks, using accomplishments as a way to feel valuable
6. active concern about the well-being of others, while not allowing anyone into his inner world
7. discounts or dismisses hurt or abuse from the past, or the present
8. accompanying mental health issues involving control or escape from anxiety
9. a strong belief in “counting your blessings” as the foundation of well-being
10. intimate relationships may be difficult, but are accompanied by professional success.

If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself lasting more than a few weeks, please talk to your doctor about them.  Depression is a real illness and is not something we can wish away or control by will power alone.  Get the help you need so you can live the life you were meant to have.

Source: rtor.org