Depression is a mood disorder that can cause a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physicalproblems.  

• Persistent sadness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Sleep problems (insomnia or hypersomnia)

• Fatigue or loss of energy

• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Thoughts of death or suicide

• Biological factors: Genetics, brain chemistry

• Environmental factors: Stressful life events, trauma

• Psychological factors: Negative thinking patterns

• Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy

• Medications: Antidepressants

• Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, healthy diet, sufficient sleep