First Signs of Depression

Depression can affect emotions, the body and everyday behaviour. Someone may withdraw from friends, lose enjoyment in familiar activities, feel irritable or anxious, or struggle with ordinary decisions. Sleep may become difficult, or a person may sleep for much longer and still feel unrefreshed. Fatigue and daytime sleepiness can make work, study and self-care harder. These experiences can also occur with stress, grief, medication effects or physical illness, so symptoms alone do not confirm depression.

Keep a brief record of mood, sleep, energy, appetite, concentration and activities for several days. Tell someone you trust what you have noticed, maintain regular meals and gentle movement, and protect a consistent sleep routine. Arrange a GP appointment if symptoms persist, worsen or interfere with responsibilities. A clinician can discuss depression, insomnia and other possible explanations.

Seek urgent help now if you are thinking about suicide, harming yourself or harming someone else, or cannot keep yourself safe. Contact local emergency services or go to an emergency department. Prompt assessment is also appropriate if you cannot function, are not sleeping for several nights, or feel detached from reality.

Ask which symptoms fit depression, whether a physical health check or medication review is useful, what treatment options are available, and how quickly to return if your mood or safety changes.