Clinical depression refers to a state of unhappiness with and indifference to life which lasts, without interruption, for at least two weeks but more often for several weeks to several months. While almost all people have periods of sadness, ennui, or feeling isolated because of things happening in their lives, the vast majority of them never experience genuine depression.

One of the classic symptoms of depression is that it will interfere with its victim's capacity to function. True depression will result in alterations in both behavior and personality, and can lead to other emotional and physical disorders, including substance and food abuse, and the inabilities either to sleep or to stay awake.

Many people confuse these symptoms of depression with those of other diseases, and do not seek the proper treatment. Because these symptoms of depression can also confuse doctors, it may take some time before a proper diagnosis is made.

Recurring Depression

One of the more common symptoms of depression is that it often recurs. There are entire families genetically predisposed to depression, and unless they receive proper treatment will continue to suffer episodes of it throughout their lives. The less severe forms of clinical depression, dysthymic disorder and atypical depression, in fact, may never get diagnosed because they are often attributed to their sufferers just having a negative attitude toward life.

People suffering from either of those two categories will have symptoms of depression which include frequent sad or lethargic moods, an inability to enjoy life, and a lack of desire or refusal to socialize. They may also gain or lose weight on a regular basis, and abuse alcohol. Listening For Symptoms

Symptoms of depression will often surface in the way someone talks about his or her life and the state of the world in general. Clinically depressed individuals may harp on their failures, be overly sensitive to what others say or do, and constantly question their own value.

Other symptoms of depression to look for are apathy towards, or lack of enjoyment in, their lives; a loss of desire for companionship; and an inability to take pleasure in entertainment, hobbies, exercise, food, or even sex.

In those suffering from bipolar disorder, or manic depression, the symptoms of depression are not always evident. Bipolar sufferers fluctuate between severe depression and manic happiness, and because the switches occur at random, there is no way to tell that someone in the manic stage also suffers from depression.

Someone who is angry, irritable, lethargic, or unable to concentrate may just be over extended, but if they do not return to a more positive mood within two weeks, they may be exhibiting the first symptoms of depression.

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