What is depression?

Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders in the world — but despite its high prevalence, there are still many misconceptions about it.

Clinical Definition of Depression

Major depressive disorder is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, and changes in sleep, appetite, and energy — these symptoms must persist for at least two weeks and affect the individual's daily functioning.

Depression is Different from Everyday Sadness

Sadness is a natural reaction to life's difficult events and usually improves over time. Clinical depression can appear without a specific reason and can last for months without appropriate treatment.

Depression is Treatable

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other psychotherapeutic approaches
• Medication treatment, if diagnosed and prescribed by a psychiatrist
• In more resistant cases, innovative methods like rTMS

To learn about one of the innovative methods for treating resistant depression, read the article rTMS for Treatment-Resistant Depression; to know the warning signs, the article 10 Signs of Depression is helpful.

Summary for Patients

Depression is a common and treatable psychiatric disorder — not a personality weakness and not merely a temporary sadness. Proper recognition is the first step toward effective treatment.

If you or someone you know has thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please contact social emergency services (123) or the nearest treatment center immediately — help is available.

Sources

• World Health Organization (WHO) — Depression Fact Sheet Depression is a common and serious mental health condition that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. Symptoms Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) — Major Depressive Disorder Overview
• American Psychiatric Association — Diagnostic Criteria for Depression