Depression, bipolar disorders, or seasonal affective disorder can affect a person's mood in a way that negatively impacts your life. Learning more about these mood disorders can help.
Depression is more than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch. It's a serious mental health condition that requires understanding and medical care. Left untreated, depression can be devastating for those who have it and their families. Fortunately, with early detection, diagnosis and a treatment plan consisting of medication, psychotherapy and healthy lifestyle choices, many people can and do get better.
Major depression is characterized by at least five of the diagnostic symptoms of which at least one of the symptoms is either overwhelming feelings of sadness or a loss of interest and pleasure in most usual activities.
A form of depression that usually continues for at least two years. It is characterized by deep sadness, low energy, low self-esteem, and hopelessness.
Part of bipolar disorder, characterized by episodes of depression alternating with episodes of mania or hypomania.
Depression that's related to certain seasons. The most common type is winter-pattern SAD, sometimes called winter depression.
Depression can be linked to changes in brain chemistry, genetics, and hormones. Some people may be more susceptible to depression due to their genetic makeup.
Chronic stress, trauma, loss of a loved one, difficult relationships, early childhood experiences, and financial problems can trigger depression.
Low self-esteem, pessimistic outlook, perfectionism, and sensitivity to loss or rejection can contribute to depression.
Making positive changes to your daily routine can help manage depression symptoms.
Building and maintaining strong relationships can provide emotional support during difficult times.
Taking care of yourself is essential for managing depression.
Talk therapy can help you understand your condition and develop coping strategies.
Antidepressants can help balance brain chemicals linked to depression.
Using both medication and therapy together often provides the best results.
Many aspects of depression treatment can be effectively delivered through telehealth services.
While only a mental health professional can diagnose depression, common signs include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, and difficulty concentrating. If you experience these symptoms for more than two weeks, consider seeking professional help.
The length of treatment varies for each person. Some people may feel better after a few months of treatment, while others may need longer-term support. The most important factor is getting started and staying committed to your treatment plan.
While mild depression symptoms might improve with time, clinical depression typically requires professional treatment. Without treatment, symptoms can worsen and lead to serious complications.
Depression can run in families, suggesting a genetic link. However, environmental and psychological factors also play significant roles in its development.
Learn about the various forms of depression and how they affect people differently.
Discover lifestyle changes and natural remedies that can help manage depression symptoms.
How depression affects relationships and ways to maintain healthy connections while managing symptoms.
Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger, but when it becomes excessive and persistent, it can interfere with daily life. Understanding and managing anxiety is key to maintaining mental well-being.
Learn More →Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by significant shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels, ranging from manic highs to depressive lows.
Learn More →A type of depression that's related to changes in seasons, most commonly beginning and ending at about the same times every year.
Learn More →If you're thinking about suicide or have thoughts of harming yourself, seek immediate help.
