Depression is a common yet serious mental health disorder that affects how a person feels, thinks, and behaves. It’s more than just a bout of sadness or a response to life’s challenges. It’s a persistent condition that can significantly impair how you feel and function every day.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 280 million people worldwide suffer from depression, making it one of the leading causes of disability.

To understand why depression occurs, we consider many factors. This includes inherited biological traits, psychological aspects of health, and the social environments that impact individuals and communities.

In this post, we’ll explore what depression is, what causes it, its symptoms, how it can be treated, and how you can seek help.