Do I Have Major Depressive Disorder Symptoms? Learn the Signs and When to Seek Help

If you’ve been feeling emotionally drained, disconnected, or weighed down for weeks at a time, you might be wondering if it’s more than just a rough patch. Perhaps you read about major depressive disorder (MDD) and have wondered, “Do I have MDD?” This guide is here to help you explore what you’re experiencing, learn more about major depressive disorder symptoms, and reflect on whether it may be time to reach out for support.

Major depressive disorder, or MDD, is a mental health condition that goes beyond feeling sad or low from time to time. It involves persistent emotional and physical symptoms that last most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks or longer. These symptoms affect how you think, feel, and function in daily life.

People with MDD often experience a loss of interest in things they once enjoyed, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, and a deep sense of fatigue or hopelessness. Depression looks different for everyone. Some experience high-functioning depression, while others deal with psychotic depression. Recognizing the signs is an important step toward understanding what’s really going on.

Major depressive disorder symptoms can show up in ways that affect every part of your life. You may feel emotionally numb or overwhelmed, like you’re moving through the day with no energy or direction. It might be hard to get out of bed, follow through on plans, or even take care of small tasks that once felt simple.

Physically, depression can affect your sleep, appetite, and overall energy. You might sleep too much or not at all, overeat, or lose your appetite entirely. Mentally, thoughts can feel heavy, negative, or stuck. You might feel like you’re failing, falling behind, or disconnected from the people around you.

This is not a clinical major depression disorder test but a written self-assessment to help you think more deeply about what you’re experiencing. As you read through these questions, try to answer honestly. Sometimes, clarity begins with simply noticing your patterns.

1. Have you felt down, sad, or empty most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or longer?

This kind of low mood is more than just a bad day—it often feels constant and hard to explain.

2. Have you lost interest in things you used to enjoy?

Whether it’s hobbies, socializing, or work, losing interest is one of the most common signs of major depressive disorder.

3. Do you feel unusually tired or drained, even when you’ve had rest?

Fatigue that doesn’t go away, even after sleeping, can be a physical symptom of depression.

4. Have your sleep or appetite changed noticeably?

You may be sleeping too much or too little, eating more, or not at all. These changes are important to pay attention to.

5. Do you have trouble focusing, remembering things, or making decisions?

Depression can cloud your ability to think clearly or follow through on tasks.

6. Have you had thoughts of hopelessness or that life feels meaningless?

These thoughts don’t always come with a clear reason, but they are serious and deserve care.

If several of these questions feel familiar, it may be a sign that you are experiencing more than everyday sadness. You don’t have to figure it all out alone. There is support available, and healing is possible. Reach out to us at Neurish Wellness for a free, confidential conversation to learn about how we can help.  

Depression doesn’t show up the same way for everyone. Depression in young adults might look like irritability, low motivation, or social withdrawal. On the other hand, depression in older adults can show up as fatigue, memory problems, or a loss of interest in daily routines. Understanding how age influences symptoms can help you or a loved one get the right support.

Major depressive disorder can be considered a disability when it seriously impacts your ability to function in everyday life. That might mean struggling to work, maintain relationships, care for yourself, or manage basic responsibilities.

For many people, MDD is not something they can simply “push through.” It affects how you think, feel, and interact with the world. If your symptoms are persistent and interfere with daily life, know that there are systems in place to help you get support and accommodations. You do not have to prove your pain to deserve help.

When you’re living with depression, it can feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world alone. At Neurish Wellness, we create a space for you to process that weight safely and at your own pace. Our trauma-informed team works with you to understand your experience, treat major depressive disorder, and build tools that support healing and growth.

Compared to other residential treatment centers for depression in California, our inpatient center stands out for its luxury accommodations and trauma-informed care. When you come to Neurish Wellness, we meet you where you are. You are not broken, and you are not alone. With the right support, you can begin to feel like yourself again.

If you saw yourself in any part of this guide, know that it’s okay to ask for help. Major depressive disorder can leave you feeling disconnected, but healing often starts with one small step.

At Neurish Wellness, we’re here to walk with you toward clarity, care, and connection. You don’t have to carry this alone any longer. Reach out to us today to get the help you need.