One symptom of depression is having problems with your sleep, but depression has other symptoms. You may be depressed if you experience either of the following symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks:

• Feeling negative, hopeless, or "down in the dumps." Children may seem irritable instead of depressed.
• Noticeable loss of interest or pleasure in almost all activities

In addition, you also experience 4 of the following symptoms most of the day, nearly every day for at least 2 weeks:

• Significant weight loss or gain
• Trouble falling asleep or sleeping too much
• Feeling restless and unable to sit still
• Feeling tired all the time
• Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
• Inability to concentrate, remember, or make decisions
• Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

Many people experience some form of depression at some point in their lives. Depression can range from a minor problem to a major, life-threatening illness. Depression is almost always treatable. For many people, treatment can mean a whole new life.

If feelings of depression are causing your sleep problems, work with your doctor to develop a plan to decrease your depression and promote sleep.