Unipolar depression is a serious mental health problem, and is also called major depressive disorder. Knowing the symptoms of this disorder is essential to getting help for you or someone you know who may be suffering from this difficult mental illness.

Features

Prolonged periods of anhedonia, or the inability to experience pleasure, is a marked symptom of unipolar depression, reports MentalHelp.net.

Effects

The Mayo Clinic reports that sleepiness, loss of appetite, irritability and loss of interest in sex are symptoms to look out for with major depressive disorder.

Potential

Serious symptoms of unipolar depression include feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and despair. These have potential for thoughts of suicide, which is the most serious symptom of which to be aware.

Identification

Symptoms of unipolar depression vary from person to person, and not everyone exhibits the same ones. Be on the lookout for any of these symptoms, and remember that unipolar depression affects everyone differently.

Prevention/Solution

Unipolar depression is more than just "the blues," says MentalHealth.net. Active prevention involves identifying these symptoms and taking action. If you or someone close to you shows any symptoms of unipolar depression, it is necessary to seek professional help. A useful depression self-assessment, courtesy of the Mayo Clinic, is included in the resources section below.

Source:

Mayo Clinic - Unipolar Major Depression

MentalHealth.net - Unipolar and other Major Depression Disorders