What Is Depression? 

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Depression is a mood disorder that leads to persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest in daily activities. Also referred to as major depressive disorder or clinical depression, this condition impacts how a person feels, thinks, and behaves. It can result in a range of emotional and physical issues, making it difficult to carry out normal day-to-day activities. In severe cases, individuals may feel as though life is no longer worth living. 

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Symptoms of Depression

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While some individuals may experience depression only once in their lives, it is more common for people to have multiple episodes. During these episodes, symptoms are present most of the day, nearly every day.

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Common symptoms include:

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• Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, or hopelessness 

• Angry outbursts, irritability, or frustration, even over minor issues 

• Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all usual activities, such as sex, hobbies, or sports 

• Sleep problems, including insomnia or excessive sleeping 

• Fatigue and lack of energy, making even small tasks seem difficult 

• Changes in appetite and weight, such as reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings and weight gain 

• Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness 

• Slowed thinking, speaking, or body movements 

• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, focusing on past failures, and self-blame 

• Difficulties with thinking, concentrating, decision-making, and memory 

• Frequently thinking about death, having suicidal thoughts, attempting suicide, or dying by suicide 

• Physical problems that cannot be explained, such as back pain or headaches 

 

For many, these symptoms are severe enough to create noticeable problems in daily life, affecting work, school, social events, or relationships. Some people might simply feel miserable without understanding the reason. 

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Depression in Children and Teenagers

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Children and teenagers may experience depression differently compared to adults, though many symptoms are similar. In younger children, signs may include sadness, irritability, clinginess, excessive worry, physical aches and pains, refusal to go to school, or being underweight. Teenagers may show symptoms such as sadness, irritability, feeling negative and worthless, anger, poor performance or attendance at school, feeling misunderstood, extreme sensitivity, using drugs or alcohol, overeating or oversleeping, self-harm, loss of interest in normal activities, and avoiding social interaction. 

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Depression in Older Adults

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Depression is not a normal part of aging and should always be regarded seriously. Despite this, depression in older adults is often undiagnosed and untreated, and many seniors may be hesitant to ask for help.

 

Symptoms in older adults may be less obvious, and can include:

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• Memory problems or personality changes 

• Physical aches or pain 

• Fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep issues, or decreased interest in sex that is not due to a medical condition or medication 

• Preferring to stay home rather than socializing or trying new activities 

• Suicidal thoughts or feelings, which are especially concerning in older men 

 

When to Seek Medical Help​

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If you feel depressed, it is important to schedule an appointment with your doctor or a mental health professional as soon as possible. If you are hesitant to seek treatment, consider talking to a friend, loved one, healthcare provider, faith leader, or someone you trust. 

 

Emergency Help for Suicidal Thoughts​

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If you are thinking about hurting yourself or attempting suicide, call 911 in the United States or your local emergency number right away.

 

Other options include: 

 

• Calling your doctor or mental health professional 

• Calling or texting 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. The Lifeline Chat is also available, and services are free and confidential. 

• U.S. veterans or service members in crisis can call 988 and press "1" for the Veterans Crisis Line, text 838255, or chat online. 

• The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers a Spanish language line at 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free).

 

If a loved one is at risk of suicide or has attempted suicide, ensure someone stays with them.

 

Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately, or, if you can do so safely, take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room. 

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