You may be depressed if you have:

• been feeling down, depressed, or hopeless most of the day
• less interest in or get less pleasure from things you once enjoyed
• feelings of sadness or unhappiness
• irritability or frustration, even over small matters
• agitation or restlessness
• trouble sleeping or have been sleeping more than usual
• been having difficulty concentrating or making decisions, thinking process slowing down, being easily distracted or difficulty in concentrating, suddenly trouble remembering things or problems in making decisions -- as minor as what to wear in the morning or as major as problem-solving at work
• feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, hopelessness, or guilt.
• feelings of self-loathing, being unable to "turn off" self- criticism, being preoccupied with failures, feeling responsible for events that are out of your control. 
• unexplained aches and pains, e.g. back pain even though you haven’t strained your back, chronic headaches and stomachaches, unexplained chest pain or achy legs and arms
• loss of energy, feeling very tired, daily activities such as getting dressed and cleaning the house can seem overwhelming and exhausting.
• loss of interest or pleasure in taking part in daily activities,
• overwhelming feelings of sadness or grief,
• unreasonable feelings of guilt
• avoiding other people,
• sleep disturbances (excessive or reduced sleep),
• disturbances in appetite (eating more or less than usual),
• decreased sex drive,
• thoughts of death or suicide.
• slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
• fatigue, tiredness and loss of energy
• fixation on past failures or self blame when things aren't going right
• crying spells for no apparent reason
• unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches

What is Bipolar Affective Disorder (BPAD)?

States of exaggerated happiness or elation are called mania. The occurrence of both depression and mania at different times is called bipolar affective disorder, while repeated experiences of depression alone is termed unipolar affective disorder.

See also - BPAD

What can friends and family do?

Some people who are depressed keep to themselves, or may react strongly to the things that others say or do. They can be be difficult to be with. It is important that the care givers let them know that they care and that it is okay to talk about their feelings and thoughts. Listening and offering  support is more helpful that trying to contradict them or talk them out of it. It is important to be patient and non-judgmental.

Does depressive illness follow a pattern?

When people suffer from clinical depression, they are more likely to suffer from depression again. Some people may experience seasonal cycles of depression, called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

How long does depression last?

Depressed feelings that are experienced after a serious loss or disappointment usually last for a short or a long time. How long they last depends on the person, the severity of the loss, and the support available to help the person to cope with it.

However, clinical depressionmay last for longer periods which may be anything from a few weeks to a few months.

Can you give me some tips to handle my depression?

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