What is depression?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes depression as sadness that lasts for a long time and interferes with normal, everyday functioning. Depression is more than having a bad day and can affect people of all ages. Symptoms of depression include:

  • Feeling sad or anxious often or all the time
  • Not wanting to do activities that used to be fun
  • Feeling irritable‚ easily frustrated‚ or restless
  • Having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
  • Waking up too early or sleeping too much
  • Eating more or less than usual or having no appetite
  • Experiencing aches, pains, headaches, or stomach problems that do not improve with treatment
  • Having trouble concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions
  • Feeling tired‚ even after sleeping well
  • Feeling guilty, worthless, or helpless
  • Thinking about suicide or hurting yourself

In general‚ about 1 out of every 6 adults will have depression at some time in their life.1 Depression affects about 16 million American adults every year.2

The following information is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis of major depression and cannot take the place of seeing a mental health professional. If you think you are depressed‚ talk with your doctor or a mental health professional immediately. This is especially important if your symptoms are getting worse or affecting your daily activities.

What are common treatments for depression?

There are many helpful treatments for depression available. Please consult your doctor or a qualified mental health professional to help determine which treatment may be best for you. Two of the most common treatments for depression are therapy and medication.

woman talking to a therapist

Therapy

Many people benefit from psychotherapy (also called therapy or counselling). Therapy focuses on thoughts, feelings, and issues that are happening in your life now. In some cases‚ understanding your past can help‚ but finding ways to address what is happening in your life now can help you cope and prepare you for challenges in the future. With therapy, you’ll work with your therapist to learn skills to help you cope with life, change behaviors that are causing problems‚ and find solutions. It is important to not feel shy or embarrasses about talking openly and honestly about your feelings and concerns. It is helpful to set attainable goals in therapy, such as getting healthier, overcoming fears or insecurities, and having better relationships with family and friends.

Medication

Prescription medications or antidepressants is also another option to treat depression. Talk to your doctor about whether they are right for you. If your doctor writes you a prescription for an antidepressant‚ ask exactly how you should take the medication. It is important for your doctor to know if you are on other medications to identify any possible negative drug interactions. The goal of using antidepressants is to improve mood and coping skills to deal with stress and anxiety. Often medication and therapy are used together to treat depression.

To read more about depression and other mental health conditions, visit the CDC's website or other mental health resources below:

Resources

Reference to specific commercial products, manufacturers, companies, or trademarks does not constitute its endorsement or recommendation by the U.S. Government, Department of Health and Human Services, or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This material is otherwise available on the agency website for no charge.