An episode of depression is marked by low or irritable mood, loss of appetite or increased appetite, difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping, loss of interest in pleasurable activities and in sex, excessive self-criticism, low energy, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, thoughts of death or suicide, and other symptoms.
Depressions deserve treatment.
A chronic depression may have only some of these signs, like irritable mood, avoidance of people and pleasant activities, excessive working, chronic low appetite or ability to sleep. Chronic low-grade depressions hurt the suffers and their families and deserve treatment. Psychotherapy can help certain kinds of depression. See your doctor or psychologist to determine the best treatment for you.