What is Depression?
Depression is a serious medical illness; it’s not something that you have made up in your head. It’s more than just feeling "down in the dumps" or "blue" for a few days. It’s feeling "down" and "low" and "hopeless" for weeks at a time. More about Depression »
Signs & Symptoms
Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed More about Signs & Symptoms »
Treatment
A variety of treatments including medications and short-term psychotherapies have proven effective for depression. More about Treatment »
Getting Help: Locate Services
Locate mental health services in your area, affordable healthcare, NIMH clinical trials, and listings of professionals and organizations. More about Locating Services »
Related Information
Occurrence in:
Depression Information and Organizations from NLM's MedlinePlus (en Español)
Some mental illnesses also carry an increased risk for suicide.
NIMH Science News about Depression
Depression Relapse Less Likely Among Teens Who Receive CBT After Medication Therapy
Anxious and Depressed Teens and Adults: Same Version of Mood Gene, Different Brain Reactions
Emotion-Regulating Circuit Weakened in Borderline Personality Disorder