Learn About Depression

Depression is a common but serious mood disorder that negatively affects the way someone thinks, feels, and behaves. Also called clinical depression or major depressive disorder, it is characterized by persistently low mood/sadness and loss of interest. It is more than just feeling β€œblue” or β€œdown in the dumps” for a couple of days and can impact a person’s ability to function in everyday life, participate in relationships, and enjoy their lives in general.Β 

Click on the tabs and links below for additional information and resources related to depression.

Looking for support?Β Find a ProviderΒ or exploreΒ Wellness StrategiesΒ to boost your mental well-being.

Depression β€” Tabbed Content Component

πŸ˜” Symptoms

  • Changes in appetite
  • Decreased focus
  • Decreased production at work or school
  • Energy loss
  • Fatigue
  • Feelings of worthlessness
  • Hopelessness or pessimism
  • Irritability or restlessness
  • Isolation
  • Persistent sadness
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Substance abuse
  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Weight fluctuations

⚠️ Risk Factors

  • 🧬 Family history of depression
  • πŸ’” Major negative events, stress, or trauma
  • πŸ₯ Physical health problems
  • 🧠 Previous mental health struggles
🌧️

Major Depressive Disorder MDD

This is the most common type of depression, marked by a constant feeling of sadness, lack of energy, and loss of interest in activities for at least two weeks.

⏳

Persistent Depressive Disorder PDD

A long-lasting form of depression with milder symptoms that can last for years is called PDD.

❄️

Seasonal Affective Disorder SAD

A type of depression that happens at certain times of the year, usually in the winter when there is less sunlight.

🀱

Postpartum Depression

Depression that occurs after having a baby, often involving sadness, anxiety, or exhaustion that makes it hard to care for oneself or the baby.

πŸ”„

Bipolar Disorder

A person with bipolar disorder (previously called manic depression) experiences extreme mood swings, including periods of depression and periods of high energy or mania.