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Understanding Depression: Causes and Symptoms

Apr 27, 2025

Depression: Symptoms and Causes

Overview

What is Depression?

  • Depression is a mood disorder causing persistent sadness and loss of interest.
  • Commonly misunderstood as a weakness; it's a treatable serious condition.
  • Affects all demographics: age, race, gender, income, and education.
  • One in six people experience a major depressive episode in their lifetime.
  • Symptoms include emotional, physical, and behavioral changes.
    • Emotional: sadness, irritability, apathy.
    • Physical: fatigue, disrupted sleep, lack of motivation.
    • Behavioral: withdrawal from activities and responsibilities.

Causes of Depression

  • No single cause; a combination of biological, social, and psychological factors.
    • Biological: genetics, health conditions, hormonal changes, brain chemistry.
    • Social: stressful events, limited resources, lack of social support.
    • Psychological: negative thought patterns, poor coping behaviors.
  • Treatment options include lifestyle changes, medications, and therapy.

Symptoms

General Symptoms

  • Sadness, hopelessness, irritability, loss of interest in activities.
  • Sleep disturbances, fatigue, changes in appetite, anxiety.
  • Impaired thinking and concentration, feelings of worthlessness.
  • Suicidal thoughts and unexplained physical issues.

Symptoms in Children and Teens

  • Similar to adults but may include clinginess, aches, or reluctance to attend school.
  • In teens: anger, poor school performance, substance use, social withdrawal.

Symptoms in Older Adults

  • May include memory issues, physical pains, fatigue, social withdrawal.
  • Depression often undiagnosed in older adults; symptoms can be subtle.

When to Seek Help

  • Important to seek professional help if experiencing symptoms.
  • Emergency help is vital if suicidal thoughts occur.
    • Call emergency services or a suicide hotline.

Additional Information

  • Mayo Clinic resources offer further insights into depression care.

Causes

  • Biological differences, brain chemistry, hormonal changes, genetic factors.

Risk Factors

  • Includes personality traits, traumatic events, family history, and other mental health disorders.
  • Abuse of substances and certain medications can increase risk.

Complications

  • Untreated depression can worsen, leading to obesity, illnesses, substance misuse, and social issues.
  • Can result in suicidal thoughts or actions.

Prevention

  • Manage stress and build resilience.
  • Early treatment is crucial to prevent worsening.
  • Long-term treatment can help prevent relapse.