Understanding Depression

Depression, also known as Major Depressive Disorder, is a common but serious medical condition. It affects your mood, thinking, and behavior, and can lead to significant distress and problems in daily life.

Symptoms of Depression

Symptoms can vary from person to person, but common signs include:

• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Causes of Depression

Depression can be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. It's not a sign of weakness and is often treatable.

Getting Help

If you think you might be struggling with depression, it’s important to seek help. Here are some resources:

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - Depression
• MentalHealth.gov
• Crisis Text Line - Text HOME to 741741