🚨 Seek Immediate Help
Seek urgent medical or emergency help if:
- You have thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
- You feel unable to keep yourself safe.
- You experience severe hopelessness or agitation.
- You become unable to care for yourself or perform daily activities.
📞 Speak With a Healthcare Professional
Arrange an appointment if:
- Symptoms last longer than two weeks.
- Work, school, or relationships are affected.
- You lose interest in activities you previously enjoyed.
- Sleep, appetite, or energy levels change significantly.
Common Symptoms & Causes
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Persistent sadness | Depressive disorder or emotional stress |
| Loss of interest or pleasure | Major depression |
| Poor sleep or insomnia | Anxiety or depression |
| Fatigue and low energy | Mood disorders or medical conditions |
| Difficulty concentrating | Depression, stress, or anxiety disorders |
Causes by Category
Stress: Long-term emotional stress may contribute to depression.
Traumatic events: Loss, grief, or difficult life experiences can trigger symptoms.
Low self-esteem: Negative thought patterns may worsen mood.
Family history: Depression can occur in families.
Brain chemistry: Neurotransmitter changes may contribute to symptoms.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations may affect mood.
Chronic illness: Long-term diseases may increase the risk of depression.
Substance use: Alcohol or drug use can worsen symptoms.
Certain medications: Some medicines may affect mood.
Diagnostic Evaluation
Mental Health Assessment
Evaluates mood, symptoms, and daily functioning.
Physical Examination
Identifies medical conditions that may contribute to symptoms.
Blood Tests
May help identify thyroid disorders, anemia, or vitamin deficiencies.
Psychological Evaluation
Assesses emotional and behavioral symptoms.
