Understanding Depression: What You Need to Know

What is depression?

Depression is not a choice; it is a disorder of the brain. It is a serious mental health condition that is more than feeling “blue” or feeling “down.” According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), roughly 21 million U.S. adults, or 8.4% of the population have had at least one major depressive episode in 2020. People of all ages and all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds experience depression, however; it does affect some groups more than others. Left untreated, feelings of depression can persist and interfere with everyday life.

What causes depression?

There is not one single cause of depression; it can be triggered by a life crisis, illness, or something else. It is believed several factors can contribute to depression.

• Trauma. Traumatic events can change how one responds to fear and stress, which can lead to depression. 

• Genetics. A family history of mood disorders, such as depression, can increase the risk of developing a depressive disorder.

• Life circumstances. Relationships, financial standing, marital status, and other life changes can influence whether someone develops depression.

• Cognitive. Studies have shown that the frontal lobe of the brain becomes less active when a person is depressed. Negative thinking patterns and low self-esteem also aid in the development of depression.

• Other medical conditions. Individuals who have a history of sleep issues, medical illness, chronic pain, anxiety, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more prone to develop depression.  

• Substance Abuse. Adults with a substance use disorder are at significantly higher risk for experiencing a major depressive episode, which can require coordinated treatment for both conditions, as substance misuse can worsen symptoms.

Types of Depression

There are several types of depression.

• Major Depressive Disorder, also known as clinical depression, causes individuals to feel that a consistent dark mood is consuming them, causing issues with daily functions and a lack of interest in activities that typically bring pleasure.

• Persistent Depressive Disorder refers to a low mood lasting for two or more years in adults and at least one year in children and adolescents.  

• Postpartum Depression affects women after having a baby, causing intense, long-lasting feelings of anxiety, sadness, and fatigue, making it difficult for mothers to care for themselves and/or their babies, as well as handle daily responsibilities.  

• Psychotic Depression is a form of depression with psychosis that is associated with extreme depression, such as delusions (false beliefs) and/or hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that are not there).

• Seasonal Affective Disorder is associated with changes in seasons, typically occurring in the fall and winter months when there is less sunlight.

• Bipolar Disorder is different than depression, but a person diagnosed with bipolar disorder can experience episodes of major depression.

What are the symptoms of a depressive disorder?

Symptoms of a depressive disorder can vary from person to person, but for most, it changes their daily functioning, and usually for more than two weeks.

Common symptoms of depression include:

• Changes in sleep

• Changes in appetite

• Lack of concentration

• Loss of energy

• Lack of interest in activities

• Hopelessness or guilty thoughts

• Changes in movement (less activity or agitation)

• Physical aches and pains

• Suicidal thoughts

The effects of depression are emotional, physical, and mental, and can take a toll on someone’s entire body, especially if left untreated.

How can I help someone with depression?

Depression can be overwhelming for the individual and their loved ones. We often don’t know what to say or do, but supporting your loved one is vital to their recovery.

• Educate yourself: Learning more about depression, symptoms, and treatment will help you understand what your loved one is experiencing.

• Be there: Being present for someone who is struggling is essential. Give them a shoulder to cry on or just listen as they talk. Reassure them that they are not alone.

• Be patient: Patience is a pivotal part of support. Reassure them that regardless of recovery time, you will be there to support them.

• Don’t minimize their pain: Remember, depression is a serious mental health disorder, it is not a weakness or personality flaw.

• Offer to help: Depression can make even the simplest tasks difficult, pitch in and help where you can.

• Take threats seriously: Suicide is a risk of depression. If your loved one makes threats to commit suicide, take them seriously. Do not leave them alone and seek help immediately.

• Encourage treatment: Your loved one may not realize they need help and may be reluctant to seek treatment. Voice your concerns and express your willingness to help.

How is a depressive disorder treated?

There are effective treatments for depression, including psychological treatment and medications.  The possibility of relapse is high for those with a depressive disorder, and multiple interventions and continued support are needed to ensure long-term success.

The Center for Living and Learning offers individuals 24-hour care and supervision for residents and continued monitoring of their progress after they leave the facility.​ Our multi-disciplinary team strives to meet and exceed the many individual needs of the residents, customizing a progress plan that is reviewed monthly to encourage individuals to meet their goals of treatment.

If you or a loved one is suffering from symptoms of depression, we can help.