Symptoms of Depression and Mania

Not everyone who is depressed or manic experiences every symptom. Some people experience only a few; some people suffer many. The severity of symptoms varies among individuals and also over time.

Depression

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood.
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyable, including sex.
• Decreased energy, fatigue; feeling “slowed down.”
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
• Trouble sleeping, early morning awakening, or oversleeping.
• Changes in appetite and/or weight.
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts.
• Restlessness or irritability.
• Persistent physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain that do not respond to routine treatment.

“You don’t have any interest in thinking about the future, because you don’t feel that there is going to be any future.”

-Shawn Colten, National Diving Champion

“I wouldn’t feel rested at all. I’d always feel tired. I could get from an hour’s sleep to eight hours sleep, and I would always feel tired.”

-Rene Ruballo, Police Officer

Mania

• Abnormal or excessive elation.
• Unusual irritability.
• Decreased need for sleep.
• Grandiose notions.
• Increased talking.
• Racing thoughts.
• Increased sexual desire.
• Markedly increased energy.
• Poor judgment.
• Inappropriate social behavior.

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