Depression

Depression is a medical condition that affects your mood and ability to function.

A major depressive disorder (clinical depression) diagnosis means you have felt sad, low, or worthless most days for at least two weeks while also having other symptoms such as sleep problems, loss of interest in activities, or change in appetite.

Without treatment, depression can get worse and last longer. In severe cases, it can lead to self-harm or death. Fortunately, treatments can be very effective in improving symptoms of depression.

How Common Is Depression?

Depression is common all over the world. Healthcare providers estimate that nearly 7% of American adults have depression yearly. More than 16% of U.S. adults, around 1 in 6, will experience depression in their lifetime.

Types Of Depression

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression can affect your emotions, mind, and body. Depression symptoms include:

If you or someone you know has thoughts of hurting themselves, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255. This national network of local crisis centers provides free, private emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

What causes depression?

How is depression syndrome diagnosed?

Everyone may feel sad or down from time to time. However, clinical depression has more intense symptoms that last two weeks or longer.

Your healthcare provider will ask questions to determine whether you have clinical depression. You may complete a questionnaire and provide a family history. Your healthcare provider may also perform an exam or order lab tests to see if you have another medical condition.

How is depression syndrome treated?

Depression can be severe, but it’s also treatable. Treatment for depression includes:

At Mending Minds, we offer all these services while attending our program. Our mission is to design customized mental health treatment programs to cater to the individual’s needs.

What’s the outlook for people with depression?

Depression can be mild or severe, brief or long-lasting. It’s essential to get help right away.

Without treatment, depression can:

What Can I Do If I Have Depression?

If you have symptoms of depression, see your healthcare provider. They can give you an accurate diagnosis, refer you to a specialist, or suggest treatment options.