We all feel sad from time to time. But if you’re having lasting feelings of sadness or emptiness, you may be suffering from depression. Depression is more than just a case of “the blues.” With depression, feelings of sadness can be overwhelming. They may interfere with day-to-day life.

Depression symptoms

Not everyone experiences depression the same way. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)*, common symptoms may include:

• Lasting sad, anxious or “empty” mood

• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helpless

• Feeling irritable or restless

• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities

• Loss of energy

• Trouble concentrating, remembering details and making decisions

• Difficulty falling asleep or sleeping too much

• Eating too much or not feeling hungry

• Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts — Get help right away if you’re thinking about suicide

• Aches and pains that don’t seem to get better with treatment

These symptoms may come and go or may vary in intensity.

What you can do

The good news is that depression is treatable. So, if you notice these symptoms in yourself or someone else, talk with a health care provider. Many of our health plans include resources such as:

• Blue CareOnDemand^SM: Video chat with behavioral health specialists from your home computer or mobile device – any time from anywhere.
• Health Coaching: Get support for a variety of conditions, including depression.
• Log in to My Health Toolkit^® to see what’s available to you.

*The CDC is an independent organization that offers health information that members of BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina may find helpful.