Depression is more than just feeling sad for a few days. It’s a serious mood disorder that can affect every part of a person’s life, from their thoughts and feelings to their physical body and daily routines. It can be hard to spot, both in yourself and in those you love, because the symptoms often come on gradually.

At Enlighten TMS Center, we believe that understanding the signs of depression is the first step toward finding help and hope. Here are some common symptoms to look for, based on insights from the National Institute of Mental Health and other experts.

Emotional and Cognitive Signs
These are the symptoms that affect how we think and feel.

Persistent Sadness: A continuous low mood or feelings of sadness, tearfulness, or emptiness that last for more than two weeks.

Loss of Interest: Losing pleasure or interest in hobbies and activities that you once enjoyed (this is a key indicator called anhedonia).

Hopelessness or Guilt: Feeling helpless, worthless, or having a pervasive sense of hopelessness about the future.

Irritability: Feeling easily frustrated, agitated, or irritable, even over small matters. This is a common symptom in both adults and younger individuals.

Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble with focusing, remembering details, or making decisions. This “brain fog” can make work or school challenging.

Physical and Behavioral Signs
Depression is not just in your head; it has real physical effects on your body and behavior.

Changes in Sleep: This can manifest as insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) or hypersomnia (sleeping too much). Up to 90% of adults with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) experience sleep difficulties.

Changes in Appetite: Noticeable changes in appetite or unplanned weight loss or gain. Some people turn to food for comfort, while others lose their desire to eat.

Fatigue or Lack of Energy: Feeling tired or “slowed down” almost every day, even after getting enough sleep. Even small tasks feel like they require a huge amount of effort.

Physical Aches and Pains: Unexplained physical problems like headaches, back pain, or digestive issues that don’t go away with treatment.

Social Withdrawal: Avoiding contact with friends and family, and pulling back from social activities. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

If You Recognize These Signs, There Is Hope
It’s important to remember that these feelings are not a personal weakness or a character flaw. Depression is a medical condition, and it is treatable. If you or a loved one is experiencing five or more of these symptoms for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, it’s a good idea to seek professional help.

At Enlighten TMS Center, we specialize in a powerful, non-invasive treatment called Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). It is an FDA-approved therapy for individuals who have not found relief with traditional medications or therapy. Our treatment is designed to restore balance to your brain’s chemistry and electrical patterns, helping you to find your way back to a life of hope, energy, and joy.

Don’t wait until you can’t function. Reaching out is the first and bravest step toward your recovery.

Enlighten TMS Center