Depression: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Written by: Gene J. PMHNP-BC

Last edited: 2/25/26

Depression is more than “feeling down.” It is a common and treatable mental health condition that can affect how you feel, think, and function at work, at home, and in relationships. With the right support, many people feel significantly better.

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What is depression?

Everyone feels sad sometimes, but those feelings usually pass. Depression (also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is different. It can cause symptoms that affect daily activities like sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, and motivation.

Depression can affect anyone, and it is often influenced by a mix of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

Quick Takeaways

Depression can show up emotionally and physically, not just sadness.

Treatment often includes therapy, medication, or both, and the best plan depends on your symptoms and preferences.

Symptoms that last at least 2 weeks and interfere with life may be depression.

You do not have to wait until things feel “bad enough” to get support.

10 Common Signs of depression & When to get help

Signs and symptoms of depression can look different for different people and its important to know that if you or anyone you know are struggling, that theres support. We at defina are here to help navigate the journey with you.

Crisis Support: If you feel that more urgent help is needed, call 988 or head to the nearest emergency department.

  1. Feeling sad, empty, or emotionally “numb”

  2. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy

  3. Changes in sleep (insomnia, waking early, or sleeping more than usual)

  4. Changes in appetite or weight

  5. Fatigue or low energy

  6. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

  7. Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness

  8. Irritability or frustration

  9. Physical symptoms without a clear cause (headaches, digestive issues, body aches)

  10. Thoughts of self harm

If you have symptoms that persist, do not improve, or interfere with work, school, relationships, or basic self-care, it is a good time to talk with a licensed mental health professional.

Depression evaluation in California

Mental health is so much more than a medication or a conversation — it’s a journey with a community.

Depression vs sadness, stress or burnout

Stress and burnout can feel awful, but depression tends to be more persistent and more disruptive. A helpful rule of thumb is:

  • Sadness or stress often comes and goes and is tied to a specific situation.

  • Depression can last for weeks or longer and affects multiple areas of life (sleep, motivation, concentration, self-worth).

Even if you are not sure what is going on, you can still reach out. You do not need to “prove” you are depressed to deserve care.

Types of depression

Depression is an umbrella term. Some common forms include:

  • Major depression: symptoms most of the day for at least 2 weeks that interfere with daily life

  • Persistent depressive disorder: longer-lasting symptoms, often milder day-to-day, but present for years

  • Seasonal affective disorder: depression that tends to appear in certain seasons

  • Depression with psychotic features: a severe form that can include delusions or hallucinations

  • Bipolar disorder: includes depressive episodes, plus manic or hypomanic episodes (this is treated differently)

This is one reason a proper evaluation matters. The right diagnosis guides the right treatment.

How is depression diagnosed

A clinician typically diagnoses depression through a conversation about your symptoms, health history, and how you are functioning day to day. To be diagnosed with depression, symptoms are generally present most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks.

Depression treatment options overview

Depression treatment commonly includes therapy, medication, or a combination. Many people do best with a plan that matches symptom severity, preferences, and medical history.

  • For milder depression, therapy is often tried first, with medication added if needed.

  • For moderate to severe depression, medication is often part of the initial treatment plan.

  • Finding the best plan can take adjustments, and that is normal.

Therapy vs psychiatry: which do I need?

Many people benefit from both, but here is a simple guide:

Therapy may be a good first step if you want help with:

  • negative thought loops, low motivation, or emotional numbness

  • relationship patterns, grief, or life transitions

  • coping skills, routines, and self-compassion

  • processing trauma or chronic stress

Psychiatry may be especially helpful if:

  • symptoms are moderate to severe

  • sleep, appetite, or functioning is significantly impacted

  • you have tried therapy but still feel stuck

  • you want to explore medication options, or you have medication questions

If you are not sure, you do not have to figure it out alone. A first visit can clarify what level of care fits best.

Therapy for depression

  • Therapy (talk therapy) helps you understand what is driving your symptoms and build practical tools to feel better. It can help you shift unhelpful thought patterns, change behaviors that keep depression going, and improve how you cope with stress and relationships.

  • our therapist may use one approach or a blend, based on your goals:

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): helps you identify and change patterns of thinking and behavior that fuel depression

    • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): focuses on relationships, life events, and communication skills that affect mood

    • Other structured approaches may also be used depending on your needs and preferences.

  • Most people start with weekly sessions, then adjust frequency over time. In early sessions, you will focus on:

    • what you are experiencing right now

    • what has helped or not helped in the past

    • goals that matter to you (sleep, energy, relationships, work, self-worth)

    • a plan you can realistically follow between sessions

Psychiatry for depression

  • Psychiatry focuses on assessments, diagnosis, the medical aspects of depression, and treatment options such as medication. Your psychiatric provider can also help evaluate for related conditions that can overlap with depression (like anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, or bipolar disorder).

  • Antidepressants are commonly used for depression. They work by changing how the brain produces or uses certain chemicals involved in mood and stress.

    A few things patients often want to know:

    • How long do antidepressants take to work? It can take time, often 4 to 8 weeks, and sleep or appetite may improve before mood improves.

    • Will I be monitored? Yes. Follow-up is important to adjust dose, address side effects, and track progress.

    • Do I have to be on medication forever? Not necessarily. Many people use medication for a period of time while they stabilize and build other supports. Your plan should be individualized.

    If you are under 25 or starting or changing a medication dose, your provider may recommend closer monitoring early on.

  • Most people start with sessions every few weeks, then adjust frequency over time.

Wondering if you might have depression?

Take this 3 min depression screener

This questionnaire is not intended to replace professional diagnosis. It is not monitored in real time and is not for emergencies.

Source: Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) ADAA

FAQs about depression

  • If symptoms like low mood or loss of interest last at least 2 weeks and interfere with daily life, it is worth getting evaluated.

  • Yes. Evidence-based therapies like CBT and IPT are commonly used and can be effective, including via telehealth.

  • Not always. For milder depression, therapy is often tried first. For moderate to severe depression, medication is often part of initial treatment.

  • If you are in danger, call 911. If you need immediate support, call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

  • Telehealth psychotherapy and medication management is effective, and many people find it easier to access consistent care virtually.

  • Yes. Depression can co-occur with other mental health conditions or medical conditions, and treating both often matters for recovery.

Medical disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are concerned about your mood or mental health, schedule an appointment with a licensed clinician.

References and resources