Depression

Plain language

Depression is more than sadness. It is a persistent shift in mood, energy, and motivation that affects daily life.

Scholarly

Major Depressive Disorder involves at least two weeks of depressed mood or anhedonia with associated cognitive, somatic, and motivational symptoms (DSM-5-TR).

Common traits

• Low mood or anhedonia
• Sleep and appetite changes
• Cognitive slowing
• Hopelessness

Strengths

• Depth of feeling
• Empathy
• Reflective insight

Challenges

• Initiation
• Energy
• Social withdrawal
• Self-criticism

Myth

Depression is weakness.

Fact

Depression is a medical condition with biological, psychological, and social contributors.

How it may appear in children

• Irritability more than sadness
• School performance changes

How it may appear in adults

• Sleep changes
• Loss of pleasure in usual interests
• Cognitive 'fog'

Workplace considerations

• Allow flexible hours
• Reduce ambient social demands during recovery
• Maintain dignity in absence

Family & caregiver considerations

• Stay present without pressure to 'cheer up'
• Help with concrete tasks
• Encourage treatment

Faith & community considerations

• Avoid spiritual shame
• Combine pastoral care with clinical support

Coping strategies

• Therapy
• Movement
• Light exposure
• Social connection
• Medication when prescribed

Possible co-occurring conditions

Many neurodivergent people meet criteria for more than one profile. See the co-occurring conditions guide.