It's common to get "the blues" when disappointed. Sadness is a normal part of life. But when sadness never returns to gladness, it becomes what authorities call the nation's leading mental health problem, "clinical depression."



If you have depression, there is nothing to be ashamed of! It doesn't mean you're crazy, and it's probably more common than you think.

According to the experts, if you have 4 or more of the following signs and they persist for more then 2 weeks, then you need to seek help.

1. Persistent feelings of "emptiness" or sadness.
2. Feeling hopeless, helpless, worthless, and/or guilty.
3. Substance abuse.
4. Fatigue or loss of interest in ordinary activities, including sex.
5. Change in eating and sleeping patterns (too much OR too little).
6. Irritability, increased crying, anxiety and panic attacks.
7. Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions.
8. Thoughts of suicide; suicide plans or attempts.
9. Persistent physical symptoms or pains that do not respond to treatment.