According to the National Institute of Mental...

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression produces some--or all--of the following symptoms. Severity varies widely by individual:

* Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood.

* Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism.

* Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness.

* Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex.

* Insomnia, early-morning awakening or oversleeping.

* Diminished appetite and weight loss, or overeating and weight gain.

* Decreased energy, fatigue.

* Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts.

* Restlessness, irritability.

* Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions.

* Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain.

For more information on depression, contact:

* National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, 200 N. Glebe Road, Suite 1015, Arlington, VA 22203-3754. (800) 950-NAMI.

* National Depressive and Manic Depressive Assn., 730 N. Franklin, Suite 501, Chicago, IL 60601. (800) 826-3632.

* National Foundation for Depressive Illness Inc., P.O. Box 2257, New York, NY 10016. (800) 248-4344.

* National Mental Health Assn., 1021 Prince St., Alexandria, VA 22314-2971. (800) 969-6642.