Symptoms

What are the most common symptoms of depression?
Persistent sadness, fatigue, loss of interest, sleep changes, appetite changes, irritability, difficulty

concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness.

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Can depression cause physical symptoms?
Yes, including headaches, muscle aches, stomach problems, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

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Can depression affect appetite or weight?
Yes. Some people eat less and lose weight, while others eat more and gain weight.

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Can depression cause sleep problems?
Yes. People may experience insomnia, early waking, or oversleeping.

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Can depression make it hard to concentrate?
Yes. Difficulty focusing, making decisions, or remembering things is common.

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Can depression cause feelings of guilt or worthlessness?
Yes. Persistent negative thoughts about oneself are a hallmark symptom.

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Can depression make me irritable or restless?
Yes. Depression can cause irritability, agitation, or restlessness, especially in teens and children.

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Can depression cause thoughts of self-harm or suicide?
Yes. Any suicidal thoughts should be taken seriously and addressed immediately with a provider or crisis hotline.

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Types of Depression

• What is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)?

  • Severe depression lasting at least two weeks, impacting daily life.

• What is Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)?

  • Chronic, low-level depression lasting two years or more.

• What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

  • Depression related to seasonal changes, often worse in winter months.

• What is Postpartum Depression?

  • Depression occurring after childbirth, affecting mood, energy, and bonding.

• Can depression occur in bipolar disorder?

  • Yes. Bipolar disorder includes depressive episodes alternating with manic or hypomanic periods.

• What is situational depression?

  • Depression triggered by stressful life events, such as loss, trauma, or major life changes.

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Causes and Risk Factors

What causes depression?

• Depression is caused by a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, hormones, personality traits, trauma, and stressful events.

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Can genetics play a role in depression?
Yes. Family history increases the risk of developing depression.

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Can trauma or abuse cause depression?
Yes. Past trauma or abuse can contribute to the onset of depression.

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Can chronic illness contribute to depression?
Yes. Chronic medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or chronic pain can increase risk.

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Can medications cause depression?
Some medications may contribute to depressive symptoms as a side effect.

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Can substance use lead to depression?
Yes. Alcohol, drugs, or prescription misuse can increase the risk or worsen symptoms.

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Diagnosis

How is depression diagnosed?
A licensed provider evaluates symptoms, medical history, and functioning to determine type and severity.

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How long do symptoms need to last for a depression diagnosis?
Typically at least two weeks for major depression; persistent depressive disorder lasts at least two years.

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Can children and teens be diagnosed with depression?
Yes. Symptoms in youth may include irritability, school avoidance, or behavioral changes.

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Can depression be mistaken for anxiety?
Yes. Symptoms can overlap, so professional evaluation is essential.

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Treatment

What are common treatments for depression?
Therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and supportive care.

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What types of therapy help with depression?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and talk therapy are common and effective.

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What medications are used for depression?
Antidepressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs, and other prescriptions prescribed by a provider.

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Can therapy alone treat depression?
Yes, especially mild to moderate depression; therapy teaches coping strategies and problem-solving.

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How long does it take for depression treatment to work?
Therapy may take weeks to months; medication can take 2–6 weeks for full effect.

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Can lifestyle changes help with depression?
Yes. Exercise, sleep hygiene, stress management, and social support can improve symptoms.

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Can mindfulness or meditation help depression?
Yes. Mindfulness practices can reduce stress and improve mood.

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Can diet impact depression?
Healthy nutrition can support brain health and improve energy and mood.

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Management and Daily Life

How can I manage depression daily?
Structured routine, exercise, mindfulness, social connection, journaling, and avoiding alcohol or drugs.

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Can depression affect work or school performance?
Yes. Difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and low motivation may impact daily tasks.

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Can depression affect relationships?
Yes. Withdrawal, irritability, and low mood can strain personal relationships.

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Can depression come back after treatment?
Yes. Depression can recur, so ongoing support and maintenance strategies are important.

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How can I support a loved one with depression?
Listen without judgment, encourage professional help, and provide emotional support.

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Crisis and Support

What should I do if I have thoughts of suicide?
Seek help immediately. Call 988 (U.S.) or reach out to a trusted person or provider.

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Are there online or telehealth options for depression?
Yes. Spring Creek MHS offers telemedicine for therapy and psychiatric care.

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What resources are available for depression?
Hotlines, Spring Creek MHS resources, online support groups, and mental health apps.

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Can support groups help with depression?
Yes. Group support can reduce isolation and provide coping strategies.

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Can friends and family help with depression?
Yes. Emotional support and encouragement to seek treatment are important.

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Special Considerations

Can children and teens experience postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression affects parents after childbirth; it can impact bonding and family dynamics.

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Can depression occur alongside anxiety?
Yes. Comorbid depression and anxiety are common and require integrated care.

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Can depression affect physical health?
Yes. It can lead to fatigue, pain, weakened immune response, and increased risk of chronic illness.

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Can depression improve without treatment?
Some symptoms may improve naturally, but professional help increases recovery likelihood.

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Is depression permanent?
No. With treatment and support, most people experience improvement and recovery.

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Can meditation or mindfulness prevent depression?
While not a cure, mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques may reduce risk or recurrence.

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Is it normal to feel depressed occasionally?
Yes, transient sadness is normal, but persistent depression requires professional evaluation.

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Can I combine therapy and medication?
Yes. Many people benefit most from a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle support.

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