What Is It? The most prominent symptom of major depression is a
severe and persistent low mood, profound sadness, or a sense of
despair. The mood change can sometimes appear as irritability.
Or the person suffering major depression may not be able to take
pleasure in activities that usually are enjoyable. Major
depression is more than just a passing blue mood, a "bad day" or
temporary sadness. The mood changes that occur in major
depression are defined as lasting at least two weeks but usually
they go on much longer -- months or even years. A variety of
symptoms usually accompany the mood change, and the symptoms can
vary significantly among different people. Many people with
depression also have anxiety. They may worry more than average
about their physical health. They may have excessive conflict in
their relationships and may function poorly at work. Sexual
functioning may be a problem. People with depression are at more
risk for abusing alcohol or other substances. Depression
probably involves changes in