Depression

What is Depression?

Depression is a common, yet serious medical condition. You may experience depression for any number of reasons, but it’s not a sign of personal weakness and it’s not a passing emotion that can be ignored. For those who seek help, depression is a very treatable condition.

At Mercy, we offer treatment with compassion, dignity and respect to help you or your loved one overcome the challenge of depression and restore a healthy emotional balance.

Types of Depression

There are several different types of depression. Your Mercy behavioral health provider can help identify which type of depression you have and plan treatment accordingly.

Depression Causes & Risk Factors

Although the causes of depression are not fully known, they are likely a combination of factors. Risk factors for depression include:

• genetics or family history of depression
• brain chemistry
• personal life circumstances.

Depression can strike at any time but commonly appears during late adolescence to mid-20s. Women are more likely to experience depression than men. Some studies show that one-third of women will experience a major depressive episode during their lifetime.

Depression in Adolescents

Childhood and adolescence can be difficult, creating a range of emotions that may be hard to manage. Sometimes, the ups and downs are serious enough to warrant professional help. Learn more about depression in children and adolescents. 

Depression & Serious Medical Diagnoses

Being diagnosed with a serious medical condition like cancer is frightening. Feelings of depression are common for both patients and family members. It's normal to feel sadness and grief. The future may seem uncertain. Your dreams may be on hold temporarily. But if sadness lingers for a long time or you or a loved one are having trouble coping with daily life, you may need professional help.  

Signs & Symptoms of Depression

It’s important to know the symptoms of depression and ask for help if you or your loved one is depressed. Symptoms vary from mild to severe and must last at least two weeks for a diagnosis of depression. These may include:

It’s important to discuss symptoms with your doctor because certain medical conditions (e.g., thyroid problems, a brain tumor or vitamin deficiency) can mimic symptoms of depression. Your doctor will do an examination to rule out general medical causes.

Understanding Depression

Depression negatively impacts how you feel, think and act. It causes feelings of deep sadness and emptiness that in extreme cases can lead to thoughts of suicide. Depression can last for weeks or even months. Some people who are depressed experience a variety of emotional and physical problems, including a loss of interest in things that once brought joy, or decreased ability to function at work and at home.

Life can be hard. The death of a loved one, loss of a job or the ending of a relationship are difficult experiences. It’s normal to feel grief or sadness when these things happen. But feeling sad is different from having depression. Mercy therapists understand this and can help you or a loved one get the right help, support or treatment.