Depression Symptoms: 15 Signs You May Be Experiencing Depression
You're not lazy. You're not weak. And you're definitely not alone.
If you've been feeling off lately—like everything takes more energy than it should, or nothing feels enjoyable anymore—you might be wondering what's going on. Maybe you've thought "Is this just a bad week?" or "Am I just stressed?"
Here's what a lot of people don't realize: depression symptoms can sneak up slowly. One day you're fine, and the next you cant remember the last time you felt like yourself.
More than 21 million American adults have experienced at least one major depressive episode. That's about 1 in every 10 people. Depression doesnt discriminate—it affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life in Castle Rock, Parker, Highlands Ranch, and communities across Colorado.
Let's talk about the real signs of depression symptoms you need to know about.
What Is Depression? Understanding More Than "Just Sadness"
Depression (clinical depression or major depressive disorder) is a real medical condition. It affects how your brain works, how you feel, and how you function day to day.
Here's the thing: depression isnt just feeling sad after something bad happens. It's a persistent change in your mood, energy, and thinking that lasts for weeks or months. It changes how you see yourself, other people, and the world around you.
Think of it this way—if you break your leg, you cant just "walk it off." Same goes for depression. You cant just snap out of it or think positive thoughts to make it go away.
Quick Self-Check: Do You Have Depression Symptoms?
Check any that apply to you for 2+ weeks:
If you checked 5 or more: You may be experiencing depression. Consider reaching out to a mental health professional. If you checked the last item, please call 988 now.
Depression vs. Sadness: What's the Difference?
People often confuse sadness with depression, but they're not the same thing.
Sadness:
Happens in response to specific events (breakup, job loss, disappointment)
Comes and goes in waves
You can still feel moments of happiness
Usually improves within days or weeks
Doesnt completely stop you from functioning
Depression:
Can happen without any clear reason
Sticks around for weeks, months, or longer
Affects almost everything in your life
Makes daily tasks feel impossible
Changes how you think about yourself and your future
The biggest difference? Sadness eventually lifts. Depression symptoms hang on and interfere with your ability to work, maintain relationships, and take care of yourself.
Depression vs. Sadness: Side-by-Side Comparison
15 Common Depression Symptoms You Need to Know
Depression symptoms look different for everyone. You might have some of these signs of depression but not others. That's normal.
Here are 15 depression warning signs to watch for:
1. Persistent Sad, Empty, or Hopeless Mood
This isnt just having a bad day. It's feeling down most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks.
You might describe it as feeling:
Empty inside, like nothing matters
Heavy, like there's a weight on your chest
Numb, like you cant feel anything at all
Hopeless, like things will never get better
Some people with depression symptoms dont feel "sad" exactly. They just feel... nothing. Like all the color drained out of their world.
2. Loss of Interest in Things You Used to Enjoy
Remember that hobby you loved? That friend you always wanted to see? That TV show you looked forward to?
When depression shows up, those things stop mattering. You might:
Skip activities you used to enjoy
Turn down invitations from friends
Stop caring about your favorite foods
Lose interest in sex or physical intimacy
Feel like "what's the point?" about most things
This symptom (called anhedonia) is one of the most common signs of depression.
3. Significant Changes in Sleep Patterns
Depression messes with your sleep in different ways:
Sleeping too much: You might sleep 10-12 hours and still feel exhausted. Getting out of bed feels impossible.
Cant sleep at all: You lie awake at 3 AM, mind racing with worries or just staring at the ceiling.
Waking up too early: You wake up at 4 or 5 AM and cant fall back asleep.
Sleep problems and depression feed each other. Not sleeping makes depression symptoms worse, and depression makes it harder to sleep.
4. Fatigue and Loss of Energy
This isnt regular tiredness. It's bone-deep exhaustion that doesnt go away after rest.
People describe it as:
Feeling drained all the time
Simple tasks feeling overwhelming
Your body feeling too heavy to move
Needing to rest after basic activities like showering
You might sleep plenty but still feel completely wiped out.
🤔 Think You Might Have High-Functioning Depression?
You go to work. You take care of responsibilities. You look fine on the outside. But inside, you're struggling. Sound familiar?
Take our free 2-minute quiz to find out if you're experiencing high-functioning depression:
Take the Free Quiz →✓ Takes 2 minutes • ✓ Completely confidential • ✓ Instant results
5. Changes in Appetite or Weight
Depression affects appetite in opposite ways for different people:
Lost appetite: Food doesnt taste good. You forget to eat or have to force yourself.
Eating more: You might eat to cope with feelings or because you dont care anymore.
Many people with depression symptoms gain or lose 5% or more of their body weight in a month without trying.
6. Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions
Your brain feels foggy. You might:
Read the same paragraph five times and not remember it
Forget what you walked into a room for
Struggle to make simple choices (what to eat, what to wear)
Miss deadlines or forget appointments
Have trouble following conversations
At work or school, people often notice this before other depression symptoms. You're just not as sharp as usual.
7. Feelings of Worthlessness or Excessive Guilt
Depression lies to you about your worth. It tells you:
"You're a burden to everyone"
"Everything is your fault"
"You've messed up your whole life"
"People would be better off without you"
"You're a failure at everything"
You might feel guilty about things that arent your fault or beat yourself up over small mistakes from years ago. These harsh thoughts feel completely real when you're depressed, but they're not.
How Depression Symptoms Show Up in Your Life
Depression affects your mind, body, and behavior in different ways:
Mental & Emotional
- Persistent sadness or emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Thoughts of death/suicide
- Feeling anxious or hopeless
Physical Symptoms
- Extreme fatigue & low energy
- Sleep problems (too much/little)
- Appetite & weight changes
- Unexplained aches & pains
- Moving/talking slowly
- Physical restlessness
Behavioral Changes
- Withdrawing from loved ones
- Irritability & mood swings
- Crying spells or numbness
- Struggling with daily tasks
- Avoiding social activities
- Decreased productivity
⚠️ Important: You don't need to have ALL of these symptoms to have depression. If you're experiencing 5 or more for at least 2 weeks, it's time to reach out for help.
8. Irritability or Restlessness
Not everyone with depression symptoms feels sad. Some people feel angry, frustrated, or short-tempered.
You might:
Snap at people for small things
Feel annoyed by everyone and everything
Have a short fuse
Feel restless and unable to sit still
Notice everything bothers you
This is especially common in men and teenagers with depression.
9. Physical Aches and Pains with No Clear Cause
Depression doesnt just affect your mind—it shows up in your body too.
Common physical symptoms include:
Headaches that wont go away
Back pain or neck pain
Stomach problems or digestive issues
Muscle aches and tension
General body pain
You might go to the doctor and they cant find anything wrong. That's because depression symptoms can cause real physical pain.
10. Withdrawal from Family and Friends
When you're depressed, being around people feels hard. You might:
Cancel plans last minute
Stop answering texts or calls
Isolate yourself in your room
Make excuses to avoid social events
Push away people who care about you
You want to be alone, but being alone makes the depression symptoms worse. It's a tough cycle.
11. Moving or Speaking More Slowly Than Usual
Some people with depression symptoms experience psychomotor retardation. That's the medical term for moving and thinking slower than normal.
Others might notice:
You talk more quietly or slowly
Long pauses before you answer questions
You move like you're walking through mud
Your reactions seem delayed
This happens because depression affects your brain's processing speed.
12. Feeling Anxious or Empty
Depression and anxiety often come together. About half of people with depression also have anxiety symptoms.
You might feel:
Worried about everything
Like something bad is going to happen
Panicky or on edge
Empty inside, like you're just going through the motions
The combination of depression and anxiety makes both conditions harder to manage.
13. Crying Spells for No Apparent Reason
Tears might come out of nowhere. You might:
Cry over small things that normally wouldnt bother you
Break down without knowing why
Feel tears coming but cant explain what's wrong
Cry and then feel embarrassed about it
On the flip side, some people with depression symptoms cant cry at all. They feel numb instead.
14. Difficulty Getting Through Daily Tasks
Basic self-care becomes hard work. Things like:
Taking a shower
Brushing your teeth
Getting dressed
Making food
Paying bills
Cleaning your space
These tasks might seem impossible when you're dealing with depression symptoms. The effort it takes to do normal things feels overwhelming.
15. Thoughts of Death or Suicide
This is the most serious depression symptom. If you're having thoughts about death or suicide, please know:
You are not alone. Help is available right now.
Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Trained counselors are available 24/7.
Thoughts about death might show up as:
Thinking "I wish I would just disappear"
Believing others would be better off without you
Making plans to hurt yourself
Thinking about death frequently
These thoughts are a symptom of depression—not your fault and not who you really are. They can get better with proper treatment.
How Severe Are Your Depression Symptoms?
Understanding the severity of your symptoms can help you know when to seek help:
Important: Any level of depression symptoms deserves attention. You don't have to wait until it's "bad enough" to get help.
Types of Depression: It's Not All the Same
Not all depression symptoms show up the same way. Here are the main types:
| Type of Depression | What It Looks Like |
|---|---|
| Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) | Severe depression symptoms lasting at least 2 weeks that affect daily life |
| Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) | Lower-level depression that lasts 2 years or more |
| Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) | Depression symptoms that show up during winter months |
| Postpartum Depression | Depression after having a baby (affects 1 in 7 mothers) |
| Bipolar Disorder | Depression episodes that alternate with periods of high energy (mania) |
Each type needs a slightly different approach to treatment. A mental health professional can help figure out which type you might have.
Depression Can Look Different in Different People
Depression in Men
Men often show different signs of depression:
More likely to feel angry or aggressive
May abuse alcohol or drugs
Work longer hours to avoid feelings
Take more physical risks
Have more physical pain
Many men dont recognize they're depressed because they dont feel "sad."
Depression in Women
Women are twice as likely as men to experience depression. They might have:
More guilt and worthlessness
More physical symptoms
More anxiety along with depression
Changes related to hormones (periods, pregnancy, menopause)
Depression in Teens
Teen depression symptoms can look like:
Irritability and anger more than sadness
School performance dropping
Risky behavior
Social withdrawal
Physical complaints (headaches, stomach aches)
Parents often think it's "just being a teenager," but depression warning signs shouldnt be ignored.
Depression in Older Adults
Depression in older people gets missed a lot. Signs include:
More memory problems
More physical complaints
Loss of interest in hobbies
Not wanting to leave home
Talking about being a burden
Depression isnt a normal part of aging. Older adults deserve treatment too.
Hidden Signs of Depression People Miss
Some depression symptoms fly under the radar:
1. Smile Depression: You seem fine on the outside, but you're suffering inside. You put on a happy face at work or with friends, then fall apart when you're alone.
2. Procrastination: You put everything off because you cant handle it. This isnt laziness—it's a symptom.
3. Trouble Enjoying Good News: Something great happens, but you cant feel happy about it. The joy just doesnt come.
4. Perfectionism: You set impossible standards and beat yourself up when you cant meet them.
5. Self-Medication: Using alcohol, drugs, food, shopping, or other things to numb feelings.
Depression Symptoms Hiding in Plain Sight
These subtle signs are often missed but are just as real as the classic symptoms:
Smiling Depression
You seem fine at work or with friends, but fall apart when alone.
Self-Medication
Using alcohol, shopping, or other things to numb the pain.
Chronic Procrastination
Can't start tasks because everything feels overwhelming.
Can't Feel Joy
Good things happen but you can't feel happy about them.
Perfectionism
Setting impossible standards and beating yourself up constantly.
Excessive Sleep
Sleeping 12+ hours but still exhausted. Using sleep to escape.
What Causes Depression? Understanding the Roots
Depression doesnt have just one cause. It usually involves a combination of things:
Biological Factors:
Brain chemistry imbalances
Genetics (depression runs in families)
Hormonal changes
Chronic illness or pain
Life Circumstances:
Trauma or abuse
Major life changes or losses
Chronic stress
Financial problems
Relationship issues
Psychological Patterns:
Negative thinking patterns
Low self-esteem
History of other mental health conditions
You didnt cause your depression symptoms. Your brain got stuck in a pattern that needs help to change.
What Increases Your Risk for Depression?
Depression usually develops from a combination of these factors:
🧬 Biological Factors
- Family history of depression
- Brain chemistry imbalances
- Hormonal changes
- Chronic medical conditions
- Certain medications
💔 Life Events
- Trauma or abuse
- Major loss or grief
- Relationship problems
- Financial stress
- Job loss or change
🧠 Psychological Patterns
- History of mental health issues
- Low self-esteem
- Perfectionism
- Negative thinking patterns
- Childhood trauma
Depression and Other Conditions
Depression rarely shows up alone. It often comes with:
Anxiety disorders: Constant worry plus depression symptoms
PTSD: Trauma that leads to depression
Substance use: Trying to self-medicate makes depression worse
Chronic pain: Physical pain and depression feed each other
Eating disorders: Depression affects appetite and body image
Treating all conditions together works better than just focusing on one.
When to Seek Help for Depression
You dont have to suffer through this alone. Reach out for help if:
✓ Depression symptoms have lasted more than 2 weeks
✓ Your daily life is being affected (work, relationships, self-care)
✓ You're having thoughts about death or suicide
✓ You've tried to feel better on your own but cant
✓ Physical symptoms wont go away
✓ Friends or family have expressed concern
Getting help early makes treatment work faster and better.
Should You Reach Out for Help? Use This Guide
Not sure if you need help? Here's a simple guide based on your symptoms:
- You have thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- You have a plan to hurt yourself
- You're hearing voices or seeing things
- Symptoms have lasted 2+ weeks
- You can't do your job or take care of yourself
- Relationships are suffering
- You've tried to feel better but can't
- You have some symptoms but are functioning
- You want to prevent things from getting worse
- You'd like to learn coping skills
- You're curious about therapy
How Depression Is Diagnosed
There's no blood test for depression. A mental health professional diagnoses depression symptoms by:
Talking about your symptoms and how long you've had them
Asking about your family history
Reviewing your medical history
Sometimes doing blood tests to rule out other causes
Using standardized questionnaires
You might see a primary doctor, therapist, psychiatrist, or counselor in Castle Rock. The important thing is taking that first step.
Treatment Options That Work
Depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. Here's what helps:
Therapy (Counseling)
Depression therapy in Castle Rock helps clients understand and manage symptoms. Common types include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Changes negative thought patterns
Interpersonal Therapy: Improves relationships and communication
Problem-Solving Therapy: Develops skills to handle challenges
EMDR Therapy: Helps with trauma-related depression
Therapy gives you tools to handle depression symptoms and understand what triggers them.
Medication
Antidepressants help balance brain chemistry. They include:
SSRIs (like Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro)
SNRIs (like Effexor, Cymbalta)
Other types based on your symptoms
It takes 4-6 weeks to feel the full effect. Medication works best when combined with therapy.
Lifestyle Changes
These dont cure depression, but they help:
Regular exercise (even a 15-minute walk helps)
Sleep routine
Eating regular meals
Reducing alcohol
Spending time outside
Staying connected to people
Other Treatments
For severe depression:
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)
ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy)
Ketamine therapy
Intensive outpatient programs
Your treatment plan should fit your specific depression symptoms and situation.
Comparing Depression Treatment Options
Here's what you need to know about different treatment approaches:
Supporting Someone with Depression
If someone you love has depression symptoms:
Do:
Listen without trying to fix it
Offer specific help ("Can I bring groceries?")
Be patient—recovery takes time
Encourage treatment
Check in regularly
Don't:
Say "just cheer up" or "think positive"
Tell them they have nothing to be sad about
Take it personally if they push you away
Give up on them
Your support matters more than you know.
Living with Depression: Hope and Recovery
Recovery from depression symptoms isnt a straight line. You'll have good days and hard days. That's normal.
Here's what helps long-term:
Stick with treatment even when you feel better
Learn your early warning signs
Build a support system
Develop healthy coping skills
Be patient with yourself
What Recovery from Depression Symptoms Looks Like
Recovery takes time, but here's what you can typically expect:
Starting treatment. Small steps. Be patient with yourself.
You might notice small improvements. Energy increases slightly.
More consistent good days. Sleep and appetite improving.
Feeling more like yourself. Building new habits and coping skills.
Remember: Recovery isn't linear. You'll have good days and hard days. That's completely normal and part of the process.
Self-Care When You're Depressed
When you're dealing with depression symptoms, self-care feels impossible. Start tiny:
Brush your teeth today
Open the blinds
Eat one healthy meal
Send one text to a friend
Step outside for 5 minutes
Do one small task
You dont have to do everything. Just one thing is enough. Tomorrow, try one more.
Tiny Self-Care Steps When Everything Feels Hard
Start with just ONE of these today. That's enough:
Morning Win
Open the blinds. Let light in. That's enough for today.
Body Care
Brush your teeth. Take a shower. Clean pajamas count as success.
Micro Movement
Walk to the mailbox. Stand outside for 5 minutes. Movement counts.
Fuel Your Body
Eat something. Anything. A granola bar counts. You need energy.
Reach Out
Text one person. Send a meme. Say "hi." Connection matters.
One Small Thing
Do one task. Make the bed. Do one dish. Small wins add up.
For more practical strategies, check out our post on techniques to reduce anxiety and stress.
Frequently Asked Questions About Depression Symptoms
Get quick answers to common questions about depression:
❓ How long do depression symptoms last?
Depression symptoms must last at least 2 weeks to be diagnosed as clinical depression. However, without treatment, depression can last months or even years. The good news is that with proper treatment, many people start feeling better within 6-8 weeks.
❓ Can you have depression without feeling sad?
Yes! Many people with depression don't feel "sad." Instead, they feel numb, empty, irritable, or just "off." Some people mainly experience physical symptoms like fatigue, pain, or sleep problems. Depression looks different for everyone.
❓ What's the difference between depression and anxiety?
Depression typically involves low mood, lack of energy, and loss of interest. Anxiety involves excessive worry, nervousness, and physical tension. However, about 50% of people with depression also have anxiety symptoms, and they often occur together. Both are treatable conditions.
❓ Do I need to take medication for depression?
Not always. Mild to moderate depression often responds well to therapy alone. However, moderate to severe depression symptoms usually improve faster with a combination of therapy and medication. Your mental health provider can help you decide what's best for your specific situation.
❓ Is depression genetic?
Depression can run in families, but having a family member with depression doesn't mean you'll definitely get it. If you have a parent or sibling with depression, you're about 2-3 times more likely to experience it, but genetics is just one factor. Life events, stress, and other factors also play a role.
❓ Can depression go away on its own?
Some mild depression symptoms may improve on their own, but it's risky to wait. Without treatment, depression often gets worse and lasts longer. Plus, each episode of untreated depression makes future episodes more likely. Getting help early leads to better, faster recovery.
❓ How do I know if it's depression or just burnout?
Burnout is usually tied to work or a specific situation and improves with rest or a change in circumstances. Depression affects all areas of life and doesn't improve with rest alone. However, burnout can lead to depression if left unaddressed. If symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, consider talking to a mental health professional.
❓ What are the early warning signs of depression?
Early warning signs include feeling more tired than usual, losing interest in activities you normally enjoy, having trouble sleeping, withdrawing from friends, and feeling irritable or down more often. If these symptoms last more than two weeks, it's time to reach out for help.
❓ Where can I get help for depression in Castle Rock?
South Denver Therapy offers depression therapy in Castle Rock and serves clients throughout Parker, Highlands Ranch, and South Denver. We provide both in-person and online therapy options. You can also talk to your primary care doctor, contact your insurance for providers, or call 988 for immediate crisis support.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve to Feel Better
Depression is treatable. You deserve to feel better. You deserve support.
If you recognize these depression symptoms in yourself, please reach out for help. Talk to your doctor. Call a therapist. Text 988 if you're in crisis.
Depression lies to you. It tells you things will never get better, that you're alone, that you're broken. But none of that is true.
With the right treatment and support, people recover from depression symptoms every day. You can be one of them.
Ready to take the first step? Download our free CBT Journal to start tracking your moods and thoughts. Or reach out to schedule a consultation for individual therapy at our Castle Rock office. We serve clients throughout South Denver, Parker, Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and surrounding areas.
You're not alone. Help is here.
Related Articles:
