Depression—
What Is It?
This sounds scary. How does this happen?
Everyone feels "blue" or "down" some of the time. Major depressive disorder (depression) is more than just feeling down. It is when a person is in a continued state of sadness, melancholy or despair to such a point that it is disruptive to how they function. It can severely disrupt your life. It can affect your appetite, sleep, work, and relationships.
What does depression feel like?
Depression has many different symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Constant feelings of sadness, irritability, or tension
- Less interest or pleasure in activities or hobbies
- Feeling hopeless, worthless, or guilty
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Low energy or feeling tired, even when you are not active
- Feeling restless or slowed down
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Changes in appetite (with weight gain or loss)
- Thoughts of suicide or death
What causes depression?
Depression may result from many things. Whatever the cause, depression is not just a state of mind. It may be due to changes in the way brain chemicals* work together.
Other Types of Depression
Besides major depression, some other types are:
- Dysthymia means you have many depression symptoms, but they are less severe, although they have been present on most days for at least two years.
- Seasonal affective disorder has the same symptoms as major depression. But the symptoms return during certain seasons. Fall and winter are the most common times.
- Postpartum depression has the same symptoms as major depression. But the symptoms occur after giving birth. It is most common in the first months after having a baby.
*These brain chemicals include serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
The good news is that depression is treatable. Work with your doctor to set goals for managing depression.
- Depression Goal Checklist
- Depression Medicine Chart
- Depression
Doctor Visits - Sticking With Depression Medicines