Depression is a health condition involving persistent low mood or loss of interest and pleasure, lasting most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Depression is not laziness, ingratitude or a character flaw.
When to seek emergency care: Get urgent help now if you are thinking about suicide or self-harm, have made a plan, feel unable to keep yourself safe, or are hearing commands to harm yourself or someone else. Do not stay alone. Contact a trusted person, call 1122, or go to the nearest emergency department.
Depression versus ordinary sadness
Sadness is a normal response to disappointment, loss or stress and may come and go. Depression affects how a person feels, thinks and functions for a sustained period. It can make ordinary tasks — getting out of bed, concentrating, eating, studying or answering messages — feel unusually difficult.
Symptoms may include low or irritable mood, loss of interest, hopelessness, guilt, low self-worth, poor concentration, sleep changes, appetite or weight changes, fatigue and thoughts of death or suicide. Some people mainly report physical symptoms such as unexplained aches, headaches or stomach problems.
Why depression happens
Depression develops through a complex interaction of biological, psychological and social factors. Bereavement, trauma, unemployment, relationship stress, chronic illness, pregnancy or childbirth, family history and harmful alcohol or drug use can contribute. Sometimes there is no single obvious cause.
Family support and faith can be deeply valuable, but they should not be used to blame someone or replace needed clinical care. A person can value faith, family and therapy at the same time.
What recovery can involve
Effective care may include structured psychological therapy, practical social support and, for some people, antidepressant medication prescribed and monitored by a clinician. Treatment choice depends on symptom severity, age, health conditions, pregnancy, personal preference and access.
- Keep small routines for sleep, meals and personal care.
- Stay connected to one or two trusted people even when you feel like withdrawing.
- Set very small goals rather than expecting immediate productivity.
- Use gentle activity, such as a short walk, when possible.
- Avoid using alcohol, sedatives or drugs to numb feelings.
These steps support treatment; they are not proof that someone can simply "think positive" and recover alone.
Which professional should you see?
A psychiatrist can diagnose mental-health conditions and prescribe when appropriate. A clinical psychologist provides assessment and evidence-based therapy. A general physician can screen for depression, check contributing physical conditions and coordinate referral. Online therapy may be suitable for some people, but urgent risk requires immediate in-person or emergency support.
Which specialist to see
SehatGPT prioritizes crisis guidance when risk is present; otherwise it helps you compare psychiatrists, psychologists and physicians without stigmatizing language.
Frequently asked questions
How long must symptoms last?
A depressive episode generally involves symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks — but help can be sought earlier when distress is severe.
Can depression cause body pain?
Yes. Fatigue, sleep disturbance and unexplained physical discomfort can occur. Physical causes should still be evaluated.
Are antidepressants addictive?
They are not considered addictive in the way sedatives or recreational drugs can be, but they can cause side effects and stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal-like symptoms. Use them only under clinical supervision.