Depression: Types, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Introduction Depression is one of the most common mental health problems in the United States. It affects millions of Americans every year, and it can be hard to tell when someone is depressed – especially if you’re not a mental health professional. That’s why we created this guide to help you understand depression and how it can affect your life. What Is Depression? Depression is a serious mental illness that affects how you think and feel. It can be debilitating, especially for those who experience it for extended periods of time. The causes are not fully understood, but depression often has genetic components. Depression is different from sadness or feeling down in any way, shape or form. People with depression may have thoughts like "I’m worthless," "I don't deserve to be happy," or "I wish I were dead." They also may experience feelings of hopelessness and helplessness that prevent them from engaging in activities they once enjoyed—like work or sc...