Signs of depression: how to tell sadness from depression
Everyone feels low sometimes. Depression is low mood or loss of interest that lasts most of the day, nearly every day, for more than two weeks, and gets in the way of daily life. Common signs include hopelessness, low energy, poor sleep and pulling away from people.
Last updated 2 November 2026
Signs in how you think and feel
- ongoing low mood or sadness
- feeling hopeless or helpless
- low self-esteem and guilt
- little interest in things you used to enjoy
- irritability, anxiety or trouble making decisions
- thoughts of death or of harming yourself
Signs in your body
- slower movement or speech than usual
- a change in appetite or weight
- low energy
- trouble falling asleep or waking very early
- aches and pains with no clear cause
Signs in your life
- staying away from friends and family
- dropping hobbies and interests
- difficulty at home, at work or in study
Sadness or depression?
Sadness often has a cause and lifts with time. Low mood that follows a hard event can pass on its own. Think about depression when the low mood or loss of interest stays most of the day, nearly every day, for more than two weeks, or when it affects work, study or relationships.
When to get help
Talk to a doctor if the signs have lasted more than two weeks. A psychiatrist can assess you, explain what is happening and suggest talking therapy, medicine, or both.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.
How to start
- Call or message us. Reach us on +91 90352 54779 or WhatsApp. Tell us your language and a convenient time.
- Free pre-consultation call. Our team takes your history and prepares a report for your clinician, so you do not repeat yourself.
- Video session. You meet your allotted clinician online, from home or wherever you feel comfortable.
- Your plan. The clinician explains what they find and the next steps. You decide together.
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Common questions
How do I know if I am depressed?
Look at how long it has lasted and how much it affects you. Low mood or loss of interest on most days for more than two weeks, with changes in sleep, energy or appetite, is a reason to see a doctor.
Can depression cause physical symptoms?
Yes. Aches and pains with no clear cause, low energy, and changes in sleep and appetite are common signs.
Is depression the same as being sad?
No. Sadness usually has a cause and passes. Depression lasts, affects many parts of life, and is a treatable condition.
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Sources
Mindly Health is not an emergency service. If someone is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.