Depression
- mjolyon
- Nov 13
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 27
Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by a persistent low mood, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, and other emotional, cognitive, physical, and behavioral symptoms. It is more than just feeling sad and can significantly impact a person's daily life, but it is a treatable condition. Common symptoms include feelings of hopelessness, changes in sleep and appetite, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
Key aspects of depression
It is a medical condition: Depression is a mood disorder, not a sign of weakness, and people cannot simply "snap out of it".
Symptoms vary: Symptoms can include emotional (sadness, irritability), physical (fatigue, changes in sleep/appetite), and cognitive (difficulty concentrating, negative thoughts) effects.
It affects daily life: It can make it hard to function at work or school and can strain relationships.
Diagnosis: A diagnosis is typically made by a healthcare provider, who may use the criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). A diagnosis usually requires at least five symptoms for two or more weeks, with at least one being a depressed mood or loss of interest.
Causes and risk factors
Biological factors: Brain chemistry, genetics, and other medical conditions can contribute to depression.
Psychological factors: Stressful life events, trauma, abuse, and loss can trigger depression.
Other factors: Substance use, such as excessive alcohol consumption, can also increase the risk.
What to do if you think you have depression
Talk to a healthcare provider: A professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and discuss treatment options or seek Depression Therapy through CBT Therapy
Seek professional help: There are effective treatments for mild, moderate, and severe depression.
In case of emergency: If you or someone you know is having thoughts of hurting themselves or attempting suicide, seek immediate help.
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