 five ways to recognize depression. One, continuous low mood or sadness. You may feel low or cry for no specific reason. Two, being irritable or intolerant of others. Often you'll have a very short temper and snap at people you love for no apparent reason. Three, showing feelings of helplessness, feelings of unhappiness, worry, guilt, being fearful, helpless, hopeless or lonely could all be signifying that something more serious is wrong. Four, increasing social isolation. Do you want to just be left alone? If you notice you're starting to withdraw from people, talk to someone. Five, little to no enjoyment of things you once liked. You might not even watch your favorite TV shows with as much interest. Not enjoying things you once liked could be a sign you're depressed.