Depression is the most common mental disorder in the world.
And although awareness about it seems widespread, in many cases it remains undiagnosed, and people who could significantly improve their well-being and quality of life do not receive professional help. Meanwhile, depression is also one of the most well-studied disorders, and today specialists have access to effective methods that lead to full recovery.

What is depression?

Depression (also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a serious mood disorder. It causes symptoms that affect how a person feels, thinks, and performs daily activities.
 

A depressive episode differs from regular mood fluctuations. The symptoms last for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Depression is characterized by two core symptoms: low mood (sadness, irritability, or a feeling of emptiness) and the inability to feel pleasure or joy (anhedonia). Additionally, depression is marked by difficulties concentrating, feelings of excessive guilt or low self-worth, hopelessness about the future, thoughts of death or suicide, disturbed sleep, changes in appetite or weight, and a sense of fatigue or lack of energy.
Several types of depression are distinguished: major depressive disorder, postpartum depression, recurrent or seasonal depression, and persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia). It may also be part of bipolar disorder or occur in the context of other mental and somatic illnesses (such as cancer, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, PTSD, etc.).
 

Sometimes depression manifests as physical symptoms such as headaches, palpitations, chest tightness, or digestive problems.

People with depression (especially men) may also display symptoms other than sadness or withdrawal, appearing instead as angry or irritable. Moreover, men are more likely to use alcohol or psychoactive substances as a way to cope with depression.
Depression results from a complex interaction of social, psychological, and biological factors. Adverse life events (such as unemployment, significant loss, or traumatic experiences) increase the likelihood of developing depression. The average age of onset is between 18 and 30, though it can emerge at any age, from childhood to old age.
 

The global prevalence of depression is currently estimated at 5%. It is diagnosed more frequently in women than in men. However, this may also be due to underdiagnosis, as men are less likely to talk about their emotions or seek help for emotional problems.

Impact on Life

Everyone feels down or discouraged from time to time. Typically, this is a response to sad events, exhaustion, or troubling thoughts. However, clinical depression is associated with severe and prolonged psychological pain that can worsen over time.
 

A person with depression may lose the ability to carry out normal daily activities, and in some cases may even attempt suicide. The person finds themselves in a closed cycle from which escape feels impossible. Sadness, helplessness, and guilt become overwhelming, and fighting these feelings further depletes their strength and worsens their condition.
 

What once brought joy no longer does. Work and socializing seem meaningless. Every activity becomes increasingly difficult. Cognitive functions also suffer during depression. The ability to absorb new information and concentrate declines, which can significantly impact work or study. Decision-making may feel nearly impossible.
 

One of the major dangers of untreated depression is the high risk of suicide. According to various data, between 30% and 70% of people with depression attempt suicide. In about 15% of cases, these attempts are fatal.

Treatment

Full recovery from depression is possible.
First-line treatment is psychotherapy, which may be combined with antidepressants in cases of moderate to severe depression. In mild cases, medication is usually not recommended.
Pharmacological treatment typically involves second-generation antidepressants, mainly Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).

Psychotherapeutic methods proven effective for depression include Cognitive or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT). Additionally, Behavioral Activation and Problem-Solving Therapy are also used.

CBT helps individuals with depression to manage and change negative patterns of thinking and to improve their coping skills, making them better prepared to deal with stress and conflict.
Interpersonal therapy focuses on relationships. It explores how other people might contribute to psychological stress and how depression affects the person’s interactions with others.

Depression is one of the most treatable mental health disorders. Around 80% to 90% of people who receive treatment eventually respond well. And maintaining consistency in psychotherapy can significantly help prevent future episodes.