Warning Signs

Depression does not just look like sadness, so it can be hard to recognize. If you can identify with more than a few symptoms from the checklist below, lasting for at least two weeks, you need to seek help from your doctor or a mental health professional. 

If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a friend and are interested in more information about what you can do, please go to our I Might Need Help or My Friend Might Need Help pages.

• Irritability, restlessness, increased anger and/or fighting
• Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities; isolation
• Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness or desperation
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or shame
• Persistent sad or “empty” mood
• Feeling anxious and overwhelmed
• Declining school performance
• Change in sleeping patterns
• Change in appetite or weight
• Decreased energy, fatigue, and feeling “slowed down”
• Decreased ability to concentrate, remember, or make decisions
• Increased alcohol and/or drug use
• Thoughts of death, suicide, or wishes to be dead

Warning Signs of Suicide

Suicide danger signals should always be taken seriously. If you are thinking about suicide, please reach out and ask for help now. Treatment is available and works. Mental health professionals are trained to know how to help you get better and get your life back. Be on the lookout for:

• Worsening depression – unrelenting low mood, hopelessness, helplessness, withdrawal, anxiety and inner tension, negative outlook on life, sleep difficulties or desperation
• Preoccupation with death
• Increased alcohol and/or other drug use
• Recent impulsiveness and engaging in risky behaviors
• Threatening suicide or expressing a strong wish to die
• Suddenly happier and calmer after thoughts and plans of suicide
• Unexpected rage or anger
• Making a plan
• Giving away prized possessions
• Unusual visiting or calling friends/ loved ones
• Sudden or impulsive purchase of a firearm
• Obtaining other means of killing oneself such as poisons or medications
• Preparing to leave family & friends behind
• Atypical social media posts referencing death, suicide and "goodbye" messages

If you recognize these signs in yourself or in a friend, reach out to a professional right away by calling 216-623-6888 or texting 741741. Then ask a trusted adult in your life for help, someone who can help you explore treatment options that will help you get through this.