Depression —also called “clinical depression” or a “depressive disorder”— is a common mental disorder that presents with depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, low energy, and poor concentration.
Depression is the most common of the affective disorders; it may range from a very mild condition, bordering on normality, to severe (psychotic) depression accompanied by hallucinations and delusions. Worldwide, depression is a major cause of disability and premature death.
Depression is a significant contributor to the global burden of disease and affects people in all communities across the world.
Depressive disorders often start at a young age; they reduce people’s functioning and often are recurring. For these reasons, depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide in terms of total years lost due to disability.
In younger children, symptoms of depression may include sadness, irritability, hopelessness and worry. Symptoms in adolescents and teens may include anxiety, anger and avoidance of social interaction.
What Causes Depression? Research suggests that a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors play a role in depression. Depression can occur along with other serious illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Depression can make these conditions worse and vice versa.
What is Depression?
