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Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious mental disorder. It involves a depressed mood or loss of pleasure or interest in activities for long periods of time. Depression is different from regular mood changes and feelings about everyday life.
Prescription medicine called antidepressants can help change the brain chemistry that causes depression. There are several different types of antidepressants, and it may take time to figure out the one that’s best for you. Some antidepressants have side effects, which often improve with time. If they don’t, talk to your healthcare provider. A different medication may work better for you.
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) involves talking with a mental health professional. Your therapist helps you identify and change unhealthy emotions, thoughts and behaviors. There are many types of psychotherapy — cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common. Sometimes, brief therapy is all you need. Other people continue therapy for several months or years.
This involves treatments you may receive along with traditional Western medicine. People with mild depression or ongoing symptoms can improve their well-being with therapies such as acupuncture, massage, hypnosis and biofeedback.
Brain stimulation therapy can help people who have severe depression or depression with psychosis. Types of brain stimulation therapy include electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS).
ECT is a medical treatment that is generally reserved for those with severe depressive episodes who have not responded to other treatments. ECT has been used since the 1940s, and many years of research have led to major improvements and the recognition of its effectiveness as a mainstream rather than a "last resort" treatment. ECT is a procedure performed under anesthesia during which the brain is stimulated electrically to induce a brief seizure. A patient typically receives ECT two to three times a week for a total of six to 12 treatments. It is usually managed by a team of trained medical professionals including a psychiatrist, an anesthesiologist and a nurse or physician assistant.
Depression is linked to changes in brain chemicals that affect mood, energy, and emotions. When these are out of balance, it can lead to persistent low mood. This is a biological factor and not something a person can control easily.
Major life events like loss, trauma, relationship issues, or financial stress can trigger depression. Even long-term stress can gradually affect mental health.
Depression can run in families, suggesting a genetic component. Some people may be more prone due to inherited traits. However, not everyone with a family history will develop depression.
Hormonal shifts during pregnancy, after childbirth, or due to medical conditions can affect mood and lead to depression.
Living with long-term physical health conditions can impact emotional well-being and increase the risk of depression.
Alcohol or drug use can affect brain chemistry and worsen or trigger depressive symptoms.
Depression can become more severe over time if not treated. Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness may deepen. This can make recovery more difficult without support.
People may start avoiding friends, family, or social activities. Isolation can further worsen emotional well-being. This creates a cycle that is hard to break without help.
Depression can affect concentration, decision-making, and productivity. Routine tasks may feel overwhelming. This can impact work, studies, and personal responsibilities.
Depression can lead to changes in sleep, appetite, and energy levels. Over time, it may contribute to other health issues.
Some individuals may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope, which can worsen depression and create additional problems.
Emotional changes and withdrawal can strain relationships with family and loved ones.
In severe cases, depression can lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide. This requires immediate attention and support. Seeking help early can prevent these serious outcomes.
Diagnosis begins with a detailed conversation about your feelings, thoughts, and daily functioning. Doctors or mental health professionals try to understand your emotional state over time. There is no single test—your experience and symptoms are the most important part of diagnosis.
Professionals look at how long symptoms like sadness, low interest, or fatigue have been present and how they affect your life. Persistent symptoms for weeks or more are usually considered significant.
Simple questionnaires or screening tools may be used to assess the severity of depression. These help guide further evaluation and treatment.
Doctors may check for physical conditions like thyroid issues or vitamin deficiencies that can cause similar symptoms. This ensures accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
Depression is categorized as mild, moderate, or severe based on symptoms. This helps decide the best treatment approach.