How do you know if you have depression?

Depression is not just sadness, its a chemical inbalance in your brain that causes your body to react and handle situations differently. There's many different types of depression that have different affects on your body. If you feel

1.alone

2. sad

3. worthless

Even when theres nothing wrong with you or in your life you probably have depression. My teacher told me in my human resc. class that depression is not just in people and you cant diagnose yourself with it becuase people can be sad but not depressed. Deppresion is different for everyone.

i really hoped that help'd. much love.

-faith

Symptoms

can include:

Trouble concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions

Fatigue

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness

Pessimism and hopelessness

Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or sleeping too much

Irritability

Restlessness

Loss of interest in things once pleasurable, including sex

Overeating, or appetite loss

Aches, pains, headaches, or cramps that won't go away

Digestive problems that don't get better, even with treatment

Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings

Suicidal thoughts or attempts

Diagnosis

There isn't a "depression test" a doctor can use to see if you have it, so figuring that out often starts with a thorough history and physical exam.

Your doctor will want to know:

When your symptoms started

How long they've lasted

How severe they are

If depression or other mental illnesses run in your family

If you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse

You'll also be asked if you've had similar symptoms of depression before, and if so, how it was treated.

Treatment

If your doctor rules out a physical cause for your symptoms, he may start you on a treatment or refer you to a mental health professional. This specialist will figure out the best course of treatment. That may include medicines (such as antidepressants), a type of therapy called psychotherapy, or both.

I personaly think that animal therapy is possibly the most effective way to help people with depression.  

I hope this helps :)