A person with depression may experience persistent sadness.Depression is a mood disorder that involves a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It is different from the mood fluctuations that people regularly experience as a part of life.

Major life events, such as bereavement or the loss of a job, can lead toTrusted Source depression. However, doctors only consider feelings of grief to be part of depression if they persist. Depression is an ongoing problem, not a passing one. It consists of episodes during which the symptoms last for at least 2 weeks. Depression can last for several weeks, months, or years.

Signs and symptoms The symptoms of depression can include:

• A depressed mood
• Reduced interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• A loss of sexual desire
• Changes in appetite
• Unintentional weight loss or gain
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Agitation, restlessness, and pacing up and down
• Slowed movement and speech
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or an attempt at suicide

Causes

The medical community does not fully understand the causes of depression. There are many possible causes, and sometimes, various factors combine to trigger symptoms.

Factors that are likely to play a role include:

• Genetic features
• Changes in the brain’s neurotransmitter levels
• Environmental factors
• Psychological and social factors
• Additional conditions, such as bipolar disorder

Treatment

Psychotherapy may help a person manage their symptoms of depression.
Depression is treatable, and managing symptoms usually involves three components:

Support: This can range from discussing practical solutions and possible causes to educating family members.

Psychotherapy: Also known as talking therapy, some options include one-to-one counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Drug treatment:A doctor may prescribe antidepressants.