Overview
Depression is a common but serious mood disorder that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. It is more than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
- Decreased energy or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Sleep problems (insomnia or oversleeping)
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Thoughts of death or suicide
When to Seek Help
If you have experienced several of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it is important to seek professional help. Depression is treatable with therapy, medication, or a combination of both.Diagnosis
Healthcare providers diagnose depression based on:- Physical examination to rule out medical causes
- Psychological evaluation about symptoms, thoughts, and behavior patterns
- DSM-5 criteria: experiencing 5+ symptoms for at least 2 weeks
Treatment Options
Medications
- SSRIs: Lexapro, Prozac, Zoloft - often first-line treatment
- SNRIs: Cymbalta, Effexor - for depression with physical pain
- Atypical antidepressants: Wellbutrin - different mechanism, fewer sexual side effects
- Tricyclics: Older class, used when others fail
Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
- Psychodynamic therapy
Lifestyle Changes
- Regular exercise
- Consistent sleep schedule
- Social connection
- Stress management
- Limiting alcohol and avoiding drugs
Related Tests
- Thyroid function tests (TSH) - to rule out hypothyroidism
- Complete blood count (CBC) - to check for anemia
- Vitamin D levels - deficiency linked to depression