Depression is more than just feeling sad. It's a serious mental health condition that affects how you think, feel, and handle daily activities. Learn about symptoms, treatments, and how to find help.
Recognize Symptoms Get Help NowDepression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. It causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home.
If you're having suicidal thoughts or are in immediate distress, please call emergency services or a crisis hotline immediately. You're not alone, and help is available.
Emergency ResourcesDepression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:
For a diagnosis of depression, these symptoms must be present for at least two weeks and represent a change from previous functioning.
There are several forms of depressive disorders, each with unique characteristics:
Depression is among the most treatable of mental disorders. Between 80% and 90% of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment. Almost all patients gain some relief from their symptoms.
"After struggling with depression for years, finding the right combination of therapy and medication changed my life. It wasn't an overnight fix, but with consistent treatment and support, I've regained my ability to enjoy life."
If you think you might be depressed, the most important step is to seek help. Start with your primary care doctor or a mental health professional. Be open about how you're feeling and the symptoms you're experiencing.
Finding the right therapist is crucial for effective treatment. Consider these steps:
These trusted resources can provide more information and support for depression:
Comprehensive information on depression symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Visit WebsitePeer-led support groups and educational resources for people with mood disorders.
Visit WebsiteFree, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Learn MoreNo, depression is more than just feeling sad. While sadness is one symptom, depression involves a persistent low mood along with other symptoms that affect your ability to function in daily life. It's a medical condition that often requires treatment.
While some people may experience temporary periods of depression that improve without treatment, clinical depression often persists and can worsen without proper intervention. Seeking professional help is recommended for persistent symptoms.
Treatment duration varies by individual. Some people see improvement in a few weeks, while others may need several months or longer of treatment. Many people benefit from ongoing therapy even after their symptoms improve to prevent relapse.
Antidepressants are not addictive in the way that substances like alcohol or opioids are. However, stopping them abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms, so it's important to work with your doctor to taper off gradually when appropriate.
Yes, lifestyle changes like regular exercise, healthy eating, good sleep habits, and stress reduction can significantly help manage depression symptoms. These are often most effective when combined with professional treatment.
Connecting with others who understand what you're going through can be incredibly helpful. Consider joining a support group specifically for depression:
Weekly meetings to share experiences and coping strategies for managing depression.
View GroupSpecialized group for young adults (18-25) dealing with depression.
View Group24/7 moderated online forum for people experiencing depression.
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