What Is Depression?
Depression is a common mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and functions in daily life. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness that last for weeks or longer and go beyond normal emotional ups and downs. Depression can influence mood, energy levels, sleep, appetite, motivation, and concentration, making routine activities feel overwhelming or exhausting. It is a medical condition, not a personal weakness, and it can affect people of all ages and backgrounds.
Depression also impacts how the brain processes emotions, stress, and reward. Changes in brain chemistry, stress regulation, and neural communication can contribute to symptoms such as loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, low self-worth, or difficulty experiencing pleasure. The condition can vary in severity and may occur as a single episode or as a recurring pattern over time. Understanding depression as a complex interaction between biological, psychological, and environmental factors is an important step toward recognizing symptoms and seeking appropriate support.
