What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression manifests in a variety of ways, and it's important to understand that it's not just a mental or emotional state, but also involves significant physiological changes. Here are some key symptoms:

1. Vegetative Symptoms: These are symptoms related to our core physiology, often linked to the autonomic or vegetative nervous system. They include constant exhaustion not necessarily tied to physical exertion or specific life events.

2. Sleep Disruptions: People with major depression often experience early waking and difficulty falling back asleep. The architecture of sleep, which typically involves slow wave sleep early in the night followed by more Rapid Eye Movement sleep, is disrupted in major depression.

3. Loss of Interest: Depression can manifest as a significant decrease in interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. This includes a decreased appetite, which could be due to a lack of pleasure from food.

4. Mood Changes: Depression can present as heightened anxiety or a significant decrease in motivation.

Remember, depression is a complex condition that can present differently in different people. It's also a risk factor for other illnesses, such as heart disease, and can exacerbate existing medical conditions. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it's important to seek professional help.