Depression is a common and serious medical condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. It is more than just feeling sad or going through a tough time.

Key points to understand about depression:

• Emotional symptoms: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness.
• Physical symptoms: Changes in sleep, appetite, energy levels, or unexplained aches.
• Impact on daily life: Difficulty concentrating, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, and challenges in managing everyday tasks.
• Causes: It can result from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.
• Treatment: Depression is treatable with therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, it is important to seek help from a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist who can provide support and appropriate care.