What should you know about endogenous depression?

Depression can involve persistent low mood, loss of interest, reduced motivation, guilt, hopelessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, anxiety, or changes in sleep and appetite. The label endogenous depression suggests symptoms may occur without one clear external trigger, but depression can arise through interacting biological, psychological, and social factors. The label alone does not determine severity or treatment.

A clinician will ask about symptoms, daily function, physical health, medicines, substance use, sleep, and safety. Insomnia, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty sleeping can overlap with or worsen depression, so the sleep pattern is worth describing clearly.

Arrange an assessment if low mood or loss of interest persists, affects work or relationships, or makes ordinary tasks difficult. Treatment may include talking therapy, practical support, medicine, or a combination. Keep appointments, take prescribed medicine as directed, and mention side effects or worsening mood. Regular sleep and wake times, gentle activity, nourishing meals, and contact with a trusted person can provide structure while care is arranged.

Seek urgent help if you are thinking about suicide, may harm yourself or someone else, cannot care for basic needs, or feel detached from reality. Do not stay alone with immediate danger; contact local emergency services or go to an emergency department. Arrange prompt clinical review for rapidly worsening mood, severe agitation, or several nights of little sleep with unusually high energy or impulsive behaviour.

Ask which diagnosis best describes your symptoms, whether physical or sleep problems should be checked, which treatments fit your preferences, how long improvement may take, and who to contact if your safety or mood worsens.