Depression in Adults
Depression is a common medical condition that affects mood, thinking, body functions, and daily life. It goes beyond occasional sadness. Adults with depression have symptoms that last most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. 
Depression changes how you feel, think, and act. It can disrupt work, relationships, sleep, appetite, and energy.
Symptoms of Depression in Adults
Adults with depression often show a mix of emotional, physical, and social symptoms. Not every symptom needs to be present to suggest depression, but patterns matter. 
Common Symptoms
- Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in sleep (too much or too little)
- Appetite or weight change
- Low energy or fatigue
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Irritability or restlessness
- Social withdrawal, less interest in people
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide (seek help right away)
Causes and Risk Factors
There’s no single cause of depression. For many adults, it’s a mix of biological, genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.
Common Contributors
- Family history of depression
- Brain chemistry changes
- Stressful life events like loss, trauma, or job problems
- Chronic illness or pain
- Substance use issues
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age or background.
How Professionals Evaluate Depression
Healthcare providers use established criteria like those in the DSM-5 or ICD-11 to assess depression. This involves talking about symptoms, their duration, and impact on daily life. 
Clinicians may also use structured questionnaires such as:
- PHQ-9 : Quick screening for depressive symptoms and severity
- BDI : A longer questionnaire that measures symptom intensity
How Depression Is Treated
Depression in adults is treatable. Treatment often combines talk therapy, medication, or both.
Treatment Options
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Non invasive brain stimulation that helps treat depression, OCD, and migraines without medication, surgery, or anesthesia.
Spravato (Esketamine Nasal Spray)
FDA approved nasal spray for treatment resistant depression and severe depression with suicidal thoughts.
IM Ketamine (Intramuscular Ketamine)
Fast acting ketamine injections used for treatment resistant depression and acute mood symptoms under medical supervision.
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age or background.
When to Seek Immediate Help
Certain signs mean you should get help right away:
- Thoughts of harming yourself
- Plans to carry out self-harm
- Severe withdrawal from daily life
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of harming yourself, please don’t wait for your appointment.
Call 988 — National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)
Call 911 — For immediate emergency assistance
Text “HELLO” to 741741 — Crisis Text Line
Living With Depression
Depression isn’t a personal failing. Recovery isn’t always linear, but many adults improve with the right care. Small steps like routine changes and support networks can make daily life more manageable.