Depression is a common and serious mental health condition that goes far beyond temporary low mood. It affects thinking, emotions, behavior, and physical well-being.
Characteristic symptoms include persistently depressed mood, loss of interest, and reduced drive. The condition can occur in episodes and vary in severity — from mild to severe.
Depression is treatable. Early diagnosis significantly improves the prognosis.
Symptoms
Symptoms appear on several levels:
Emotional symptoms:
Persistent sadness or inner emptiness
Loss of interest and pleasure
Feelings of hopelessness
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
Cognitive symptoms:
Concentration difficulties
Rumination
Indecisiveness
Negative outlook on the future
Physical symptoms:
Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling or staying asleep)
Changes in appetite
Fatigue
Reduced drive
In severe cases, suicidal thoughts may occur and must always be taken seriously.
Types
Mild, moderate, or severe depressive episode
Recurrent depressive disorder
Dysthymia (chronic depressive mood)
Seasonal affective disorder (winter depression)
Postpartum depression
Accurate classification is essential for treatment planning.
Causes
Depression develops through an interplay of various factors:
Biological factors (neurotransmitter changes, genetic predisposition)
Psychological factors (negative thinking patterns, early relationship experiences)
Stressful life events (loss, chronic stress)
Physical illnesses
Often, several influencing factors interact simultaneously.