Depression is a common but serious mood disorder that affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. It goes beyond occasional sadness or temporary emotional responses and can persist for weeks, months, or even years. Rooted in a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, depression can disrupt one's ability to function and experience joy. It's important to understand that depression is a medical condition—not a personal weakness—and it is treatable with the right support and care.

Symptoms of depression can vary from person to person but often include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide. These symptoms can interfere with relationships, work, and daily functioning. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking help can begin the path toward healing.

What are the common symptoms of depression?

Persistent sadness or emptiness

Loss of interest in activities

Fatigue or low energy

Sleep problems (too much or too little)

Changes in appetite or weight

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

Difficulty concentrating

Thoughts of death or suicide

A healthcare professional (like a doctor or therapist) will assess symptoms, duration, and impact on life, often using interviews and questionnaires.

Crisis and Suicide

What should I do if I feel suicidal?
Reach out immediately—to a trusted person, a mental health professional, or a crisis line. You are not alone, and help is available.

What should I do if I feel Suicidal?
If you are having Suicidal thoughts please contact your practioner, tell a loved one, contact the suicide.

Living with depression can feel heavy and overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Therapy offers a safe, supportive space where you can talk openly about what you’re going through and begin to find new ways forward. Together, we might use approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to gently shift unhelpful thought patterns, mindfulness practices to bring calm and focus to the present moment, or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help reconnect you with the values and activities that give life meaning. For some, exploring deeper experiences and relationships through psychodynamic therapy can also bring understanding and healing. While therapy doesn’t erase depression overnight, it can nurture hope, build coping tools, and remind you that healing and brighter days are possible.

Can I work or go to school while depressed?
Yes, but it may be challenging. Seeking support and reasonable accommodations can help.

What should I do if someone I know is depressed?
Listen non-judgmentally, encourage them to seek help, and offer support. If they’re in immediate danger (e.g., talking about suicide), seek emergency help.

Can lifestyle changes really help with depression?
Yes. Regular exercise, sleep hygiene, healthy eating, and social support can significantly improve mood.

Supporting someone with depression can make a meaningful difference in their recovery. Be patient, listen without judgment, and gently encourage them to seek professional help. Avoid offering simple solutions or minimizing their feelings; instead, reassure them that they’re not alone and that help is available. Taking care of your own emotional well-being is also important, as caregiving can be challenging. Compassion, consistency, and informed support can offer powerful hope to those struggling.