Depression, also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, is characterized by low mood lasting longer than two weeks and affecting one’s daily life. Symptoms can include sadness, anger, irritability, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts or attempts, reduced energy and/or interest, difficulty sleeping, poor memory or reaction time, and much more. Some types of depression can also include psychotic symptoms like delusions or hallucinations.

It’s important to note that everyone can have periods of sadness or be depressed about events in their lives, but it’s not considered clinical depression unless it’s ongoing and severe. There are some specific kinds of depression as well:

• Persistent depressive disorder is ongoing depression lasting at least two years.
• Seasonal affective disorder is a kind of depression that recurs every winter and may include symptoms of social withdrawal, increased sleep, and weight gain.
• Postpartum depression occurs during pregnancy and/or after childbirth and can impede the mother’s ability to care for herself and the baby.
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder occurs about a week before menstruation and includes severe irritability, mood swings, fatigue, anxiety, and more. 

Risk Factors

Like many mental illnesses, the exact cause of depression is unknown, but genetics and environment are two big factors. If your family history includes past cases of depression or if you’ve had exposure to toxic environments like neglect, abuse, or poverty, then you’re much more likely to develop a depressive condition. 

In addition, hormones and biochemistry can also impact how you deal with stress and whether you might develop depression. 

Treatment

Depression is a dynamic kind of disorder, with many associated conditions or potential causes. As a result, there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment and each treatment plan should be customized to the individual. 

The most common treatments include medication, which can help depression by modifying brain chemistry, and psychotherapy, which can navigate symptoms through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), problem-solving therapy, and other modalities. 

Since the 1940s, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and other brain stimulation therapies have also been used to treat severe major depression when other treatments haven’t worked. Modern research has improved this process and established brain stimulation as a credible, mainstream solution for depression. 

Exercising, socializing, and a strong support network can also have a positive impact on your ability to treat and overcome depressive symptoms. 

For more information on depression, visit the National Institute of Mental Health. 

Need help now? Call SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)