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Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. It goes beyond just feeling sad — it’s a persistent sense of emptiness, hopelessness, or loss of interest that can last for weeks or months.

🧠 Possible Causes

Biological: imbalance in brain chemicals (like serotonin and dopamine).

Genetic: family history can increase risk. Psychological: trauma, abuse, or chronic stress. Medical: certain illnesses, medications, or hormonal changes.

🌿 Treatment Options Therapy:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and other talk therapies.

Medication: antidepressants such as SSRIs or SNRIs (prescribed by a healthcare provider).

Lifestyle changes: regular exercise, healthy sleep, balanced nutrition, and mindfulness.

Support: talking with loved ones, joining support groups, or seeing a mental health professional.

🌧️ Key Features

Persistent sadness or low mood most of the day, nearly every day. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed.

Changes in appetite or weight (eating more or less than usual).

Sleep problems (trouble sleeping or sleeping too much).

Fatigue or low energy. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

Thoughts of death or suicide (in severe cases — a medical emergency).