Learn About Depression

Learn about depression symptoms, causes, treatment options, and how to support yourself or others. Evidence-based information from trusted mental health sources.

Education helps you recognize, understand, and manage depression. Learn about symptoms, treatment options, and how to support yourself or others dealing with depression.

Understanding Depression

Depression is a common medical condition that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. It's treatable with proper care.

What is Depression?

Depression is more than feeling sad. It's a persistent condition affecting mood, energy, sleep, appetite, and ability to function. According to NIMH, over 21 million U.S. adults experienced a major depressive episode in 2020.

Types of Depression

Major depression, persistent depressive disorder, postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, and bipolar depression each have distinct patterns and symptoms.

Common Symptoms

Persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness, and thoughts of death or suicide.

Causes and Risk Factors

Depression results from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Family history, trauma, chronic stress, and certain medical conditions increase risk.

Experiencing Depression Symptoms?

Take a validated screening test to assess your symptoms. Takes just 3-5 minutes and is completely confidential.

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Treatment Options for Depression

Depression is treatable. Most people improve with therapy, medication, or both:

Psychotherapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and other evidence-based approaches help you develop coping strategies and address underlying issues.

Antidepressant Medication

SSRIs, SNRIs, and other antidepressants can help correct chemical imbalances in the brain. They typically take 2-4 weeks to show effects.

Lifestyle Modifications

Regular exercise, consistent sleep schedule, balanced nutrition, and stress reduction techniques support recovery and prevent relapse.

Support Groups

Connecting with others who understand depression can reduce isolation and provide practical coping strategies.

Brain Stimulation Therapies

For treatment-resistant depression, options like ECT, TMS, or ketamine therapy may be considered under medical supervision.

Managing Depression Daily

These strategies can help manage symptoms and support recovery:

•Maintain a consistent daily routine
•Exercise for 30 minutes most days (even a short walk helps)
•Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night
•Eat regular, nutritious meals
•Limit alcohol and avoid recreational drugs
•Practice relaxation techniques (deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation)
•Stay connected with supportive friends and family
•Set small, achievable goals each day
•Track your mood and symptoms
•Reach out for help when symptoms worsen

Supporting Someone with Depression

How to help a loved one dealing with depression:

•Listen without trying to fix or judge
•Acknowledge their pain (avoid saying 'just cheer up')
•Encourage them to seek professional help
•Offer to help with specific tasks (meals, errands, appointments)
•Learn about depression to understand what they're experiencing
•Maintain your own self-care and boundaries
•Be patient—recovery takes time
•Respect their privacy and autonomy
•Check in regularly, even if they don't respond
•Know warning signs of suicide and when to get emergency help

Common Myths About Depression

Separating fact from fiction:

❌ Myth:

Depression is just sadness or a bad mood

✓ Fact:

Depression is a medical condition with physical and psychological symptoms that persist for weeks or months

❌ Myth:

Depression is a sign of weakness or character flaw

✓ Fact:

Depression is a medical illness caused by brain chemistry, genetics, and life circumstances—not personal weakness

❌ Myth:

You can just 'snap out of it' with positive thinking

✓ Fact:

Depression requires treatment. While positive coping helps, it's not a cure for a medical condition

❌ Myth:

Antidepressants change your personality

✓ Fact:

Antidepressants help restore normal brain chemistry. They don't change who you are—they help you feel like yourself again

❌ Myth:

Talking about depression makes it worse

✓ Fact:

Talking about depression with trusted people or professionals is an important step toward recovery

Educational Resources

Trusted sources for mental health information:

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Research-based information on mental health conditions and treatments

Visit NIMH

Mental Health America

Education, advocacy, and screening tools

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

Support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families

Visit NAMI

American Psychological Association

Articles and resources on psychology and mental health

View all professional resources

If you're in crisis or need immediate support, get help now

Check Your Depression Symptoms

Take a validated screening test to understand your symptoms

Start Depression Test

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.