What depression actually looks like
Many people with depression have several symptoms at once: feelings of sadness, a sense of hopelessness or worthlessness, lack of pleasure in things they used to enjoy, and — often overlooked — irritability.
It doesn't always look like crying. For a lot of people it looks like exhaustion that sleep doesn't fix, a shortening fuse, or a slow withdrawal from the things and people they care about.
Common symptoms
- Persistent low, empty or irritable mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities
- Changes in sleep — too much, too little, or waking early
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Fatigue or low energy most days
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Thoughts of death or self-harm
What contributes to depression
There is rarely a single cause. Genetics, medical conditions, medications, substance use, sleep, chronic stress, grief and life circumstances can all play a part, and they often overlap. Part of what an evaluation does is sort out which factors are driving your symptoms — because that changes what helps.
How depression is treated
Treatment may include therapy, medication, or both. Some people benefit most from one; many do best with a combination. Your psychiatric provider will discuss the potential benefits, risks and alternatives with you when medication is being considered, and you stay involved in that decision.
When it's clinically appropriate, GeneSight pharmacogenomic testing may be one of the tools used to inform prescribing decisions.
This page is general information, not medical advice. It cannot diagnose you and is not a substitute for an evaluation. Conditions treated may vary by clinician and service.
