Depression or passing sadness? Signs that deserve help, not blame

Depression may involve lost enjoyment or low mood disrupting life, with sleep, energy and concentration changes. Symptoms lasting most of the day for around two weeks warrant assessment; duration alone is not a self-diagnosis.

Instead of simply saying 'cheer up', identify what has become difficult: eating, working or connecting? Describing impact helps clinicians. Psychological, social and biological factors interact; suffering is not weak willpower.

Effective psychological and medication treatments exist. Supportive routines complement care. If there is immediate danger of self-harm, contact local emergency services and a trusted person; do not wait for a symptom-duration threshold.