What is Depression?

This video explains what depression is, distinguishing it from occasional feelings of sadness or stress. It outlines common symptoms of depression and emphasizes that it is a disorder with biological, psychological, and social implications. The video also discusses various treatment options for depression.

It is estimated that 5% of adults experience depression. However, because it is a mental illness, it can be harder to understand than, say, having a cold. The key is to distinguish depression from occasional feelings of sadness or stress. Almost everyone feels down once in a while, like when losing a job, having an argument, or even witnessing a stretch of bad weather. However, these feelings come and go. They respond to ongoing changes, while depression tends to feel heavy and constant. At times, it can be difficult to identify depression in someone, as it is a disorder defined by thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. But there are some common symptoms of depression, such as prolonged periods of having no motivation or interest in things, changes in appetite, feeling worthless or guilty, sleeping either too much or too little, low energy and difficulty concentrating, avoiding social interactions, or recurring thoughts of self-harm or death. Those who have experienced depression might have heard comments like, "snap out of it," "brighten up already," or "go and do something about it." However, it is important to remember that depression is a disorder with a biological basis, along with psychological and social implications. It is not simply a weakness that somebody can get over or laziness that one can shrug off. Depression seldom gets better without treatment and may get even worse. Fortunately, there are many different ways of treating depression, such as therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, joining a support group, or at times, simply confiding in a trusted friend or a family member. Although there is no quick fix for depression, the effort is completely worth it, and you may come out of it perhaps even stronger. For more information on depression, as well as treatment options, please visit www.psychiatry.org.