Question 1

What causes depression?

Accepted Answer

We have a lot more to learn about the root causes of depression, but it’s clear that depression has a genetic component. Relatives of a depressed person are at higher risk of developing the disorder. Additionally, depression can be linked to certain life experiences.

Childhood abuse or trauma increases the risk of depression (although everyone can develop depression, including people with happy childhoods). Stressful events, such as losses, conflicts and big changes in life make us more vulnerable to depression. A poor diet increases the risk of depression (Read more about An easily digested guide to diet and depression – How to eat your way out of depression).Poor sleep quality increases the risk of depression (Read more about All you need to know about depression and sleep).

Question 2

What does depression feel like?

Accepted Answer

Depression (or Major Depressive Disorder) is characterized by blue, depressed feelings and a loss of interest in activities that used to feel enjoyable. When going through depression, you may experience unusually strong feelings of hopelessness, guilt or shame. It may be difficult to concentrate and/or make decisions and you may feel tired almost all the time. Some people with depression experience intrusive negative thoughts about their own inadequacy or about death and suicide. Sleep disturbance and appetite changes are other common characteristics of depression.

This article includes three case examples of what depression may feel like and where to get treatment: What are the signs of depression?

Question 3

What are the signs of depression?

Accepted Answer

Depressive symptoms. If you have experienced at least five of these symptoms for at least two weeks, you may be diagnosed with depression:

Depressed mood: Feeling blue most of the day, nearly every day.Loss of interest and pleasure: Markedly reduced interest/pleasure in all (or almost all) activities most of the day.Changed appetite or weight (eating more or less than usual).Sleep disturbance (too much or too little).Moving more slowly than usual or making meaningless movements due to anxiety (for example twisting your hands).Lacking energy: Feeling tired nearly every day.Feeling excessively guilty and/or worthless.Having difficulty concentrating and/or making decisions.Having repeated thoughts about death, suicidal thoughts, or sometimes wishing you were dead.

Depression criteria. To receive a diagnosis of depression, the following conditions also apply:

You experience at least 5 depressive symptoms. One of the symptoms ‘Depressed mood’ or ‘Loss of interest and pleasure’ is present. The depressive symptoms have been present for at least two weeks. The depressive symptoms cause suffering or affect your ability to work, interfere with relationships or other important aspects of life. The symptoms can’t be explained by a physical illness or substance abuse. The symptoms can’t be explained by another mental disorder.You have never experienced a manic or hypomanic episode.

Read more about depressive symptoms here: What are the signs of depression?

Question 4

What is depression?

Accepted Answer

Depression, clinical depression or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is a mood disorder characterized by a low mood and a loss of interest in activities. The symptoms of depression can be mental, physical and social and cause difficulties in important areas of life, such as work, school, daily chores or relationships.

Read more about depression here: Am I depressed?

Question 5

Am I depressed?

Accepted Answer

Feeling blue most of the day, nearly every day, and losing interest in activities are the hallmarks of depression. When going through depression, the symptoms don’t disappear like you would expect them too if you were just experiencing ordinary sadness or fatigue. There are several depressive symptoms and criteria to consider before receiving a diagnosis and you need the help from a physician or clinical psychologist to make sure all of the criteria for depression are met.

If you have experienced at least five depressive symptoms for at least two weeks, you may be diagnosed with depression.

Read more about depression and take an online depression test here: Am I depressed?

To find out if you have a diagnosis, reach out to one of our partner clinics

The Depression FAQ

About depression

What causes depression?

What does depression feel like?

What are the signs of depression?

What is depression?

Am I depressed?

About depression

What causes depression?

What does depression feel like?

What are the signs of depression?

What is depression?

Am I depressed?