Changes in brain chemistry, especially disruptions in neurotransmitters like serotonin, that play an important role in regulating many bodily functions, including mood, sleep, and appetite, are thought to play a particularly important role in depression. Biologically, we think about genetics or a family history of depression, health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or thyroid disorders, and even hormonal changes that happen over the lifespan, such as pregnancy and menopause. While there's no single cause of depression, most experts believe there's a combination of biological, social, and psychological factors that contribute to depression risk. That's why it's important to get an accurate diagnosis. Some symptoms may be a sign of another disorder or medical condition. Symptoms of depression are different for everyone. These symptoms all work together to keep you trapped in a cycle of depression. Behaviorally, you just want to pull back and withdraw from others, activities, and day-to-day responsibilities. And even in some cases, have thoughts of not wanting to live. You can be really hard on yourself, feel hopeless and helpless about things. Your thoughts tend to be much more negative.

It's really hard to get yourself motivated. Emotionally, you may feel sad or down or irritable or even apathetic. There are many types of symptoms that make up depression. Approximately one in six people will experience a major depressive episode at some point in their lifetime, while up to 16 million adults each year suffer from clinical depression. It honestly affects people of all ages and races and biological sexes, income levels and educational backgrounds. If you're experiencing depression, you're not alone. Depression is a common, serious, and treatable condition. It's not about being in a bad mood, and people who experience depression can't just snap out of it. Depression isn't a weakness or a character flaw. Unfortunately, there's a lot of stigma around depression. What is depression?ĭepression is a mood disorder that causes feelings of sadness that won't go away. Whether you're looking for answers for yourself, a friend, or loved one, understanding the basics of depression can help you take the next step. And I'm here to talk with you about depression. Craig Sawchuk, a clinical psychologist at Mayo Clinic.

What is the opposite of depressed