What behavioral symptom might indicate a depressive disorder?

Loss of appetite or sleep is a common behavioral symptom associated with depressive disorders. In a depressive episode, individuals often experience significant changes in their eating and sleeping patterns. They may lose interest in food, leading to a reduced appetite, or they might struggle with insomnia, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. These changes can contribute to the overall sense of lethargy and sadness that characterizes depression. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for identification and diagnosis, allowing for timely intervention and support. It reflects how mood disorders can manifest not just emotionally but in the physical well-being of individuals.