What is a sign that a patient may be suffering from depression?

A patient exhibiting withdrawn behavior and loss of interest is a significant indicator of depression. This symptom reflects the emotional and cognitive changes that occur when a person is struggling with depressive disorders. Individuals may find that activities they once enjoyed no longer bring them pleasure, resulting in diminished interest in social interactions, hobbies, and other aspects of life. This loss of interest, known clinically as anhedonia, alongside social withdrawal, is often a crucial red flag for mental health professionals when assessing a patient for depression.

In contrast, increased energy levels or regular attendance at social events typically suggest a state of well-being or normalcy, contradicting depressive symptoms. Similarly, improved sleep patterns are often not associated with depression—many individuals with depression experience insomnia or disrupted sleep rather than improvement. Thus, the manifestation of withdrawn behavior and loss of interest aligns closely with clinical characteristics of depression, making it a key sign to observe in patients.