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Signs and symptoms

Depressed mood is the most common symptom of a major depressive episode. Either a depressive mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities for most of the day or every day must be present for a diagnosis of a major depressive episode. In addition, the person may experience one or more of the following emotions: sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, indifference, anxiety, tearfulness, pessimism, emotional numbness, or irritability. In children and adolescents, a depressed mood often presents as irritability. Withdrawal from social settings and neglect of personal relationships often accompany depressed mood, and may be noticed by those close to the person.