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A person who feels sad all the time, has unexplained crying spells, or loses interest in usual activities may have major depression, a serious medical illness that should be distinguished from normal temporary feelings of sadness after a loss, such as the death of a relative or friend. The May 28, 2008, issue of JAMA includes a study about preventing depression in patients who have had a stroke. This Patient Page is based on one previously published in the January 18, 2006, issue of JAMA.

SYMPTOMS OF MAJOR DEPRESSION

Having at least 5 of these symptoms occurring nearly every day for at least 2 weeks:

• Feeling sad or empty
  
• Decreased interest or pleasure in activities
  
• Appetite change with weight loss or weight gain
  
• Decreased or increased sleeping
  
• Fatigue or loss of energy
  
• Feeling worthless or guilty
  
• Being either agitated or slowed down
  
• Difficulty thinking or concentrating
  
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide