Overview

What it is: Depression is a medical condition leading to persistent feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, sleep problems, agitation, and difficulty concentrating. Some depressed people are physically depressed as well -- constantly tired and sometimes lacking in appetite.

How it's diagnosed: Doctors use a set of guidelines and questions to help determine whether you have depression. They might also run tests to help rule out other conditions or medications possibly causing the depression.

How it's treated: Treatment can involve taking medications, going to therapy or counseling, or both. You may need ongoing treatment to prevent it from coming back.

If you are feeling depressed, you might wonder if you are the only one who feels the way you do, if what you are feeling is really depression and if your feelings are really bad enough to see a doctor.

When you're depressed, everyday life can feel difficult. You know your feelings are not the normal, healthy ones that come from facing life's difficulties. Your despair might feel as if it will go on and on. However, there is hope -- depression is treatable and feeling better is within your reach.

Some people find comfort just by learning depression is a medical condition. Learning more about your condition is often a good first step toward feeling better.

Back to Top

What Does It Feel Like?

Depression is not the same as having the occasional "blues" or feeling sad every once in a while -- and then bouncing back to your old self. Depression can be mild, moderate or so bad it affects every part of your life -- your body, your feelings, your thoughts and your behaviors. It can have an impact on your family relationships, your friendships and your ability to work, play or just get through your day. At its worst, depression can even make you feel like you don't want to live.

Some people who are depressed think life might not be worth living. These thoughts and feelings are not your fault -- they can be part of depression. Studies suggest up to 15 percent of people with severe depression commit suicide. Depression is a serious condition, and your feelings can change with treatment.

Back to Top

How Common Is Depression?

You might feel you are the only one who has ever felt hopeless and helpless. But this isn't true. You are not alone. Many people suffer from depression.

In the United States, approximately 16 million people suffer from depression in any given year. As many as 25 percent of women suffer from depression serious enough to seek treatment at least once in their lifetime. In fact, nearly twice as many women as men suffer from depression every year.

Remember: depression can be treated and you can feel better. Experts say most people who have depression can feel better when they receive treatment. Many see some improvement in their symptoms within weeks of starting medication.

Back to Top