what is depression

Depression is a mental health condition that causes persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities that you once enjoyed. It can affect your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical health. Symptoms of depression include low mood, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, feelings of worthlessness, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Depression can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors and can be treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both.