Knowledge Library

Depression

Learn about persistent low mood, loss of interest, changes in energy or sleep, treatment options and ways to find support.

Understanding This

Feeling sad or low sometimes is part of life. Depression is different from an ordinary short period of sadness. It can involve persistent changes in mood, thinking, energy, sleep, appetite, motivation and the ability to manage normal daily activities.

What Someone May Experience

Persistent sadness, emptiness or low mood

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

Low energy or fatigue

Changes in sleep

Changes in appetite

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Irritability or frustration

Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, helplessness or worthlessness

Pulling away from friends, family or responsibilities

What May Help

Professional evaluation

Psychotherapy

Medication when appropriate

A combination of treatments when recommended

Social support and connection

Regular routines involving sleep, food, movement and daily activity

When to Reach Out

Reach out when symptoms persist, become severe, interfere with daily functioning or make it difficult to care for yourself. Depression can be treated, and treatment can be adjusted when the first approach does not provide enough relief.

Immediate Support

Thoughts of death, suicide or self-harm require immediate attention. Call or text 988 for crisis support.

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Related SAGE Resources

Trusted Sources

These are the organizations SAGE used to build and verify this information. They are shown for transparency. SAGE does not send you away from this page automatically.

National Institute of Mental Health — Depression


                        https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression

NIMH — Depression Publication


                        https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression

Information checked: 2026-09-28