In the U.S., depression is the second most common mental illness in adults, just after anxiety.  While depression is a feeling that anyone can experience, diagnosed depression is a specific condition that’s widespread but often misunderstood. More than occasional sadness or having a bad day, depression is a serious mental health condition that can impact how people think, feel, and handle day-to-day life.

While everyone goes through emotional ups and downs, depression lingers; It can interfere with work, relationships, and a person’s overall well-being. Recognizing the signs and symptoms is the first step in getting help, whether for yourself or your loved ones. 

What Does Depression Look Like?

Depression doesn’t always present itself in the same way for everyone. Some people may seem perfectly fine on the outside while struggling internally. Others may exhibit more obvious signs. Here are some of the most common symptoms:

• Persistent Sadness or Low Mood — Feeling down for days, weeks, or even months without relief. This sadness can be overwhelming and impossible to shake.
• Loss of Interest or Pleasure — Activities that once brought happiness, like hobbies, socializing, or even eating favorite foods, no longer feel enjoyable.
• Changes in Sleep Patterns — Some people may sleep too much, while others struggle with insomnia, waking up in the middle of the night or early in the morning.
• Fatigue and Low Energy — Depression often brings a deep sense of exhaustion, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming.
• Changes in Appetite or Weight — Some experience a loss of appetite and weight loss, while others may turn to food for comfort, leading to weight gain.
• Difficulty Concentrating — Making decisions, remembering things, or staying focused can become incredibly difficult.
• Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt — Constantly feeling like a failure or burden, even without a clear reason.
• Physical Symptoms — Headaches, digestive issues, and unexplained aches and pains can sometimes be linked to depression.
• Thoughts of Self-Harm or Suicide — In severe cases, depression can lead to thoughts of hurting oneself, including suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing these thoughts, seek immediate help from a mental health professional or hotline. Call 988 to connect immediately with a trained counselor at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

The Science Behind Depression

Depression isn’t just about emotions—it’s linked to biological, genetic, and environmental factors. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), imbalances in brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine can play a role in depression. Life events like trauma, stress, or major changes can also trigger depressive episodes, particularly in individuals who are already predisposed.

Support and Treatment Options

If you recognize these signs in yourself or a loved one, know that help is available. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist can be a great first step. Depression can be credibly diagnosed by mental health professionals like a therapist or psychiatrist. 

Upon diagnosis, a combination of treatments may be prescribed, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. In severe cases, a hospital stay may be required. 

Even after beginning treatment, it can take weeks or months to see improvement of symptoms. In the meantime, rely on your support network like friends, family, or your therapist for encouragement. Remember, things can get better. 

Mental Wellness at AltaMed

Depression is hard, exhausting, and unfair, but no one has to go through it alone. For AltaMed patients, our Behavioral Health Services team provides short-term therapy and can help you secure counseling, treatment and other recovery resources. Call (855) 425-1777 to receive assistance now. For non-patients, call us at (888) 499-9303 to learn more or get started.