What is depression?

Depression (major depressive disorder and related depressive disorders) is a medical condition that affects mood, thinking and the body. It is not a personal weakness or a character flaw. People with depression experience persistent sadness or loss of interest in most activities for at least two weeks, along with other emotional and physical symptoms that interfere with daily life.

Common types of depressive disorders

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Periods of marked low mood, loss of interest and other symptoms severe enough to affect functioning.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A chronic, lower-grade depression lasting two years or more.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depressive episodes that occur seasonally, often in fall/winter.
• Perinatal/Postpartum Depression: Depression during pregnancy or after childbirth (more than the “baby blues”).
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Severe mood changes tied to the menstrual cycle.
• Depressive disorder due to another medical condition or substance: When another illness or medication contributes to depressive symptoms.

How common is depression?

Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide. Many people will experience a depressive episode at some point in life. It affects people of all ages, including teenagers and young adults. Because mood problems can present differently at different ages, it’s important to recognize the signs early and seek help.

Signs and symptoms

Depression can produce emotional, cognitive, physical and behavioral symptoms. Not everyone will have all symptoms, and symptoms vary in intensity.

Emotional and cognitive signs

• Persistent sadness, empty feelings, or tearfulness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering details or making decisions
• Slowed thinking or irritability

Physical and behavioral signs

• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Low energy, fatigue, or feeling slowed down
• Restlessness or agitation
• Social withdrawal and reduced activity
• Physical aches and pains without clear cause

Note: If you or someone you care for is experiencing severe distress, thinking about harming themselves, or is unable to function safely, seek emergency help immediately or contact local crisis services. If you are a young person, tell a trusted adult right away so they can help keep you safe and get professional care.

What causes depression?

Depression is usually the result of multiple interacting factors. There is no single cause. Common contributors include:

• Genetic vulnerability: A family history of depression increases risk, though genes interact with environment.
• Brain chemistry and physiology: Neurotransmitters and brain circuits involved in mood regulation can be altered in depression.
• Life events and stress: Loss, relationship problems, school stress, bullying, financial worries, or major life changes can trigger depressive episodes.
• Chronic medical conditions: Chronic pain, thyroid problems, diabetes, and other illnesses can contribute to low mood.
• Substance use: Alcohol and drugs can worsen or trigger depressive symptoms.
• Hormonal changes: Such as during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause.
• Childhood adversity: Trauma or neglect increases lifetime risk for depression.

How is depression diagnosed?

Only a qualified clinician (primary care doctor, pediatrician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed mental health professional) can diagnose depression. Diagnosis typically involves:

1. A thorough clinical interview about symptoms, duration and impact on daily life.
2. Medical history and physical exam to rule out medical causes (e.g., thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies).
3. Standardized screening tools (like PHQ-9 for adults, or validated tools for adolescents) that help assess severity.
4. Assessment of safety, including questions about self-harm or risk to others.
5. Review of medications and substance use that could affect mood.

Evidence-based treatments

Depression is treatable. Evidence-based options include psychotherapies, medications, and supportive strategies. Often a combination works best.

1. Psychotherapy (talk treatments)

Several forms of therapy are effective for depression:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. CBT is widely supported by research and works well for many people.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on relationship problems and role transitions that contribute to depression.
• Behavioral Activation: Emphasizes re-engaging in rewarding activities to improve mood.
• Family therapy and adolescent-focused therapies: Can help when young people are affected, involving parents and guardians constructively.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other specialized therapies: Useful for specific patterns of emotion regulation problems.

2. Medications (antidepressants)

Antidepressant medications can be helpful, especially for moderate to severe depression or when therapy alone is not enough. Common classes include SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), SNRIs, and others. Medication choice is individualized, balancing benefits and side effects. A clinician will monitor response and adjust as needed.

3. Combined approaches

Many people benefit from a combination of therapy plus medication. This combined approach often works faster and leads to more complete recovery for moderate to severe depression.

4. Other treatments

When depression is severe or treatment-resistant, additional options exist under medical supervision, such as:

• Specialized medications or augmentation strategies
• Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) — used in specific, severe cases and within hospital settings
• Newer modalities (e.g., repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation — rTMS)

Practical self-help strategies

Alongside professional care, these daily strategies can support mood and recovery:

• Keep a regular routine: Consistent sleep, meals and activities help mood stability.
• Prioritize sleep: Aim for regular sleep habits; avoid excessive screen time before bed.
• Move your body: Regular physical activity, even short walks, releases chemicals that support mood.
• Eat balanced meals: Nutritious food supports brain and body functioning; avoid extreme dieting or substance misuse.
• Break tasks into small steps: Large tasks can feel overwhelming; small achievable goals build momentum.
• Stay connected: Reach out to friends, family or a mentor — social support matters.
• Use coping skills learned in therapy: Skills like grounding, mindful breathing, or thought challenging can reduce distress in the moment.
• Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs: These substances can worsen mood and interfere with treatment.

How to support someone with depression

If a friend or family member is depressed, your support matters. Practical ways to help:

• Listen without judgment: Offer a calm, noncritical space to talk.
• Encourage professional help: Suggest seeing a doctor, counselor, or school mental health professional and offer to help set up appointments or go with them.
• Check in regularly: Small messages or visits show you care and reduce isolation.
• Help with daily tasks: Offer practical support like preparing a meal or doing chores if they are overwhelmed.
• Know the limits: While support is important, you are not a replacement for professional care — encourage expert help if symptoms persist or worsen.

When to seek urgent help

Contact emergency services or a crisis line immediately if someone is at immediate risk of harming themselves or others, is unable to care for themselves, or is experiencing severe symptoms such as confusion, inability to respond, or severe physical symptoms. If you are with someone in immediate danger, call local emergency services right away.

Practical steps to find professional help

1. Talk to a trusted adult: If you are a young person, tell a parent, guardian, teacher, school counselor, coach or another adult you trust.
2. See your primary care doctor: They can perform a medical check and refer to mental health specialists.
3. Search for local mental health services: Community clinics, university counseling centers, or local health departments often offer care on sliding scales.
4. Use online directories: National or regional psychology/psychiatry associations often list licensed clinicians by area.
5. Ask about teletherapy: Remote therapy options can increase access if in-person options are limited.
6. Ask about payment options: Many clinics offer sliding scale fees, student services, or insurance-based care.

Barriers to care and how to overcome them

Many people face obstacles such as stigma, cost, or limited access. Some strategies:

• Reduce stigma by sharing facts: Depression is a health condition and not a personal failure.
• Start with a trusted adult or school counselor: They can help navigate next steps.
• Look for low-cost or sliding-scale clinics: Community mental health centers often provide affordable care.
• Explore support groups: Peer support groups can provide connection and practical tips while you pursue professional care.

What recovery looks like

Recovery from depression can mean different things for different people. For many, recovery includes:

• Reduction in symptom severity and improved daily functioning
• Restoration of interest in activities
• Better sleep and energy
• Tools and strategies to manage future setbacks

Recovery is often a gradual process. Relapses can occur, but with early recognition and care, many people regain stability and lead satisfying lives.

Common myths about depression

• Myth: “Depression is just sadness.” Fact: Depression is a medical condition that affects mood, thinking and body; it often requires treatment.
• Myth: “You can snap out of it.” Fact: Recovery typically requires time, support and often professional treatment.
• Myth: “Antidepressants change your personality.” Fact: Many people report that effective treatment helps them feel like themselves again.

Practical resources and next steps

If you or someone you care for is struggling, start with one of these steps:

1. Talk to a trusted adult or friend — you don’t have to face this alone.
2. Make an appointment with a primary care clinician or school counselor for an initial assessment.
3. Search for local mental health services or crisis lines in your area — many countries and regions have hotlines and online resources.
4. Keep a simple mood diary to track symptoms, sleep, and activity patterns to share with your clinician.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Final notes — you are not alone

If you are reading this because you are worried about yourself or someone you love, thank you for taking a step forward. Reaching out is often the hardest but most important first move. Please connect with a trusted adult, a healthcare professional, or a school counselor. If you or someone is in immediate danger or at risk of self-harm, seek emergency services or local crisis support right away.