formal essay about depression

Essays About Depression: Top 8 Examples Plus Prompts

Many people deal with mental health issues throughout their lives; if you are writing essays about depression, you can read essay examples to get started.

An occasional feeling of sadness is something that everyone experiences from time to time. Still, a persistent loss of interest, depressed mood, changes in energy levels, and sleeping problems can indicate mental illness. Thankfully, antidepressant medications, therapy, and other types of treatment can be largely helpful for people living with depression.

People suffering from depression or other mood disorders must work closely with a mental health professional to get the support they need to recover. While family members and other loved ones can help move forward after a depressive episode, it’s also important that people who have suffered from major depressive disorder work with a medical professional to get treatment for both the mental and physical problems that can accompany depression.

If you are writing an essay about depression, here are 8 essay examples to help you write an insightful essay. For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers .

1. My Best Friend Saved Me When I Attempted Suicide, But I Didn’t Save Her by Drusilla Moorhouse
2. How can I complain? by James Blake
3. What it’s like living with depression: A personal essay by Nadine Dirks
4. I Have Depression, and I’m Proof that You Never Know the Battle Someone is Waging Inside by Jac Gochoco
5. Essay: How I Survived Depression by Cameron Stout
6. I Can’t Get Out of My Sweat Pants: An Essay on Depression by Marisa McPeck-Stringham
7. This is what depression feels like by Courtenay Harris Bond

8. Opening Up About My Struggle with Recurring Depression by Nora Super

1. what is depression, 2. how is depression diagnosed, 3. causes of depression, 4. different types of depression, 5. who is at risk of depression, 6. can social media cause depression, 7. can anyone experience depression, the final word on essays about depression, is depression common, what are the most effective treatments for depression, top 8 examples, 1. my best friend saved me when i attempted suicide, but i didn’t save her by drusilla moorhouse.

“Just three months earlier, I had been a patient in another medical facility: a mental hospital. My best friend, Denise, had killed herself on Christmas, and days after the funeral, I told my mom that I wanted to die. I couldn’t forgive myself for the role I’d played in Denise’s death: Not only did I fail to save her, but I’m fairly certain I gave her the idea.”

Moorhouse makes painstaking personal confessions throughout this essay on depression, taking the reader along on the roller coaster of ups and downs that come with suicide attempts, dealing with the death of a loved one, and the difficulty of making it through major depressive disorder.

2. How can I complain? by James Blake

“I wanted people to know how I felt, but I didn’t have the vocabulary to tell them. I have gone into a bit of detail here not to make anyone feel sorry for me but to show how a privileged, relatively rich-and-famous-enough-for-zero-pity white man could become depressed against all societal expectations and allowances. If I can be writing this, clearly it isn’t only oppression that causes depression; for me it was largely repression.”

Musician James Blake shares his experience with depression and talks about his struggles with trying to grow up while dealing with existential crises just as he began to hit the peak of his fame. Blake talks about how he experienced guilt and shame around the idea that he had it all on the outside—and so many people deal with issues that he felt were larger than his.

3. What it’s like living with depression: A personal essay by Nadine Dirks

“In my early adulthood, I started to feel withdrawn, down, unmotivated, and constantly sad. What initially seemed like an off-day turned into weeks of painful feelings that seemed they would never let up. It was difficult to enjoy life with other people my age. Depression made typical, everyday tasks—like brushing my teeth—seem monumental. It felt like an invisible chain, keeping me in bed.”

Dirks shares her experience with depression and the struggle she faced to find treatment for mental health issues as a Black woman. Dirks discusses how even though she knew something about her mental health wasn’t quite right, she still struggled to get the diagnosis she needed to move forward and receive proper medical and psychological care.

4. I Have Depression, and I’m Proof that You Never Know the Battle Someone is Waging Inside by Jac Gochoco

“A few years later, at the age of 20, my smile had fallen, and I had given up. The thought of waking up the next morning was too much for me to handle. I was no longer anxious or sad; instead, I felt numb, and that’s when things took a turn for the worse. I called my dad, who lived across the country, and for the first time in my life, I told him everything. It was too late, though. I was not calling for help. I was calling to say goodbye.”

Gochoco describes the war that so many people with depression go through—trying to put on a brave face and a positive public persona while battling demons on the inside. The Olympic weightlifting coach and yoga instructor now work to share the importance of mental health with others.

5. Essay: How I Survived Depression by Cameron Stout

“In 1993, I saw a psychiatrist who prescribed an antidepressant. Within two months, the medication slowly gained traction. As the gray sludge of sadness and apathy washed away, I emerged from a spiral of impending tragedy. I helped raise two wonderful children, built a successful securities-litigation practice, and became an accomplished cyclist. I began to take my mental wellness for granted. “

Princeton alum Cameron Stout shared his experience with depression with his fellow Tigers in Princeton’s alumni magazine, proving that even the most brilliant and successful among us can be rendered powerless by a chemical imbalance. Stout shares his experience with treatment and how working with mental health professionals helped him to come out on the other side of depression.

6. I Can’t Get Out of My Sweat Pants: An Essay on Depression by Marisa McPeck-Stringham

“Sometimes, when the depression got really bad in junior high, I would come straight home from school and change into my pajamas. My dad caught on, and he said something to me at dinner time about being in my pajamas several days in a row way before bedtime. I learned it was better not to change into my pajamas until bedtime. People who are depressed like to hide their problematic behaviors because they are so ashamed of the way they feel. I was very ashamed and yet I didn’t have the words or life experience to voice what I was going through.”

McPeck-Stringham discusses her experience with depression and an eating disorder at a young age; both brought on by struggles to adjust to major life changes. The author experienced depression again in her adult life, and thankfully, she was able to fight through the illness using tried-and-true methods until she regained her mental health.

7. This is what depression feels like by Courtenay Harris Bond

“The smallest tasks seem insurmountable: paying a cell phone bill, lining up a household repair. Sometimes just taking a shower or arranging a play date feels like more than I can manage. My children’s squabbles make me want to scratch the walls. I want to claw out of my own skin. I feel like the light at the end of the tunnel is a solitary candle about to blow out at any moment. At the same time, I feel like the pain will never end.”

Bond does an excellent job of helping readers understand just how difficult depression can be, even for people who have never been through the difficulty of mental illness. Bond states that no matter what people believe the cause to be—chemical imbalance, childhood issues, a combination of the two—depression can make it nearly impossible to function.

“Once again, I spiraled downward. I couldn’t get out of bed. I couldn’t work. I had thoughts of harming myself. This time, my husband urged me to start ECT much sooner in the cycle, and once again, it worked. Within a matter of weeks I was back at work, pretending nothing had happened. I kept pushing myself harder to show everyone that I was “normal.” I thought I had a pattern: I would function at a high level for many years, and then my depression would be triggered by a significant event. I thought I’d be healthy for another ten years.”

Super shares her experience with electroconvulsive therapy and how her depression recurred with a major life event despite several years of solid mental health. Thankfully, Super was able to recognize her symptoms and get help sooner rather than later.

7 Writing Prompts on Essays About Depression

When writing essays on depression, it can be challenging to think of essay ideas and questions. Here are six essay topics about depression that you can use in your essay.

Depression can be difficult to define and understand. Discuss the definition of depression, and delve into the signs, symptoms, and possible causes of this mental illness. Depression can result from trauma or personal circumstances, but it can also be a health condition due to genetics. In your essay, look at how depression can be spotted and how it can affect your day-to-day life.

Depression diagnosis can be complicated; this essay topic will be interesting as you can look at the different aspects considered in a diagnosis. While a certain lab test can be conducted, depression can also be diagnosed by a psychiatrist. Research the different ways depression can be diagnosed and discuss the benefits of receiving a diagnosis in this essay.

There are many possible causes of depression; this essay discusses how depression can occur. Possible causes of depression can include trauma, grief, anxiety disorders, and some physical health conditions. Look at each cause and discuss how they can manifest as depression.

There are many different types of depression. This essay topic will investigate each type of depression and its symptoms and causes. Depression symptoms can vary in severity, depending on what is causing it. For example, depression can be linked to medical conditions such as bipolar disorder. This is a different type of depression than depression caused by grief. Discuss the details of the different types of depression and draw comparisons and similarities between them.

Certain genetic traits, socio-economic circumstances, or age can make people more prone to experiencing symptoms of depression. Depression is becoming more and more common amongst young adults and teenagers. Discuss the different groups at risk of experiencing depression and how their circumstances contribute to this risk.

Social media poses many challenges to today’s youth, such as unrealistic beauty standards, cyber-bullying, and only seeing the “highlights” of someone’s life. Can social media cause depression in teens? Delve into the negative impacts of social media when writing this essay. You could compare the positive and negative sides of social media and discuss whether social media causes mental health issues amongst young adults and teenagers.

This essay question poses the question, “can anyone experience depression?” Although those in lower-income households may be prone to experiencing depression, can the rich and famous also experience depression? This essay discusses whether the privileged and wealthy can experience their possible causes. This is a great argumentative essay topic, discuss both sides of this question and draw a conclusion with your final thoughts.

When writing about depression, it is important to study examples of essays to make a compelling essay. You can also use your own research by conducting interviews or pulling information from other sources. As this is a sensitive topic, it is important to approach it with care; you can also write about your own experiences with mental health issues.

Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

FAQs On Essays About Depression

According to the World Health Organization, about 5% of people under 60 live with depression. The rate is slightly higher—around 6%—for people over 60. Depression can strike at any age, and it’s important that people who are experiencing symptoms of depression receive treatment, no matter their age.

Suppose you’re living with depression or are experiencing some of the symptoms of depression. In that case, it’s important to work closely with your doctor or another healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan that works for you. A combination of antidepressant medication and cognitive behavioral therapy is a good fit for many people, but this isn’t necessarily the case for everyone who suffers from depression. Be sure to check in with your doctor regularly to ensure that you’re making progress toward improving your mental health.

If you’re still stuck, check out our general resource of essay writing topics .

Amanda has an M.S.Ed degree from the University of Pennsylvania in School and Mental Health Counseling and is a National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer. She has experience writing magazine articles, newspaper articles, SEO-friendly web copy, and blog posts.

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about Depression - Free Essay Samples And Topic Ideas

Depression, a common mental health disorder, can severely impact an individual’s quality of life. Essays on depression could delve into its symptoms, causes, and various treatment approaches including psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications. Furthermore, discussions might extend to the societal stigma surrounding depression, the importance of mental health awareness, and the socio-economic impact of depression on individuals and communities. We have collected a large number of free essay examples about Depression you can find at Papersowl. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Depression and Anxiety in Teenagers

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Jane’s Depression in the Yellow Wallpaper

The Yellow Wallpaper is written by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. This story is about a young woman by the name of Jane who is a wife, trapped in a room. Jane suffers from depression following the birth of her child. Her husband, John, diagnoses her behavior as melancholia. He prescribes her rest and leases a house in the country for her rehabilitation. John is a respected physician, so Jane initially needs his advice. He does not let her write, which is […]

Stress at Workplace

Stress is something which occurs or disturbs someone's mind whether we are rich or poor it doesn't matter the person is having wealth so it's free from stress. Stress is a thing which takes place when others demands exceed our limitations when someone expects something favourable or of some high expectations within a short period of time and putting pressure to complete or touch their limitations than its harmful for our physical as well for our mental health too. It's […]

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About Postpartum Depression in the Yellow Wallpaper

Charlotte Perkins Gilman's The Yellow Wallpaper does not, in my opinion, reflect contemporary concerns of women. Gilman's short story focuses on the idea that men control the lives of women in essentially every aspect. The narrator's husband tells her not to do anything to stimulate her brain. He asks her not to write, think about her condition, or to talk to anyone in a stimulating fashion. Her whole life at this point is decided by her husband and brother, who […]

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a severe mood disorder one in ten women experiences following childbirth. It is caused by chemicals produced in the brain going haywire after the hormones are thrown off balanced by pregnancy. Postpartum depression's effects vary for each woman, symptoms often include mood swings, anger, anxiety, panic attacks, weight loss/gain, insomnia, etc. Postpartum depression is very common but often goes undiagnosed and treated. Women feel ashamed and embarrassed by these feelings, thus they keep their feelings to themselves, […]

Effects of Helicopter Parenting on College Students

The term “helicopter parenting” has recently become a reoccurring term used, especially in media and schools (Van Ingen et al., 2015, p. 8). Universities have brought helicopter parenting to the attention of many as the reason for college students having a difficult time transitioning into college. Practitioners, college administrators, and professors have become very concerned about this generation of college students (Reed, Duncan, Lucier-Greer, Fixelle, & Ferraro, 2016, p. 3136). This generation is considered to be the “Millennial” generation. This […]

What was the Great Depression and why did it Start in the USA

There are many significant events that have shaped America’s history. Some were infamous, some scandalous and some we choose to overlook..According to the PBS film “The Great Depression”, The Great Depression was one of the most traumatic and gut wrenching event throughout history. This film outline the events leading up to the great depression and highlights some of the significant events during this time period. The Great Depression was an economic downturn that began in 1929 while president Herbert Hoover […]

Rise in Depression and Anxiety

Social media is a whole bunch of websites where many people seem to have an addiction for; whether it's Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter etc. Many people can't seem to go a minute or not even a day without posting a picture for likes. They post their personal thoughts or even use it to vent. Why not call up a friend and have a real conversation with them about your problem? Kids these days don't know what fun is. They rather […]

In the Modern World

In the modern world many people suffer from mental disorders that are not physically apparent which in many cases are overlooked. Depression is a mental disorder that creates feelings of hopelessness and despair, and in severe cases, can even lead to suicide. More recent updated ethics have lead people to be more accepting, however, society has a long way to go to fully understand mental disorders. Many factors are contributed to this mental disorder that are uncontrollable. From a psychological […]

Depression Behind Sylvia Plath

Depression behind sylvia plath Syvia Plaths life story may be considered to be tragic due to the consumption of her mind by depression. A girl calls and asks, "Does it hurt very much to die?" "Well, sweetheart," I tell her, "yes, but it hurts a lot more to keep living, says a character in a Chuck Palahnuik novel. Having experienced a troubled life and inferring a dark future one may assume that ending it all is perceived to be better […]

Depression and Substance Abuse

Depression is a very serious mood disorder that can affect and influence your mood, how you might feel and engage in certain activities that you may have once enjoyed before having some negative feelings and emotions that are significant factors when we think about depression. Depression and the co-morbidity of substance abuse is a rising epidemic that is becoming a more prevalent diagnosis in our society through the means of self-medication or abusing substances to cope with the anxiety or […]

Captain Teresa Della Monica

Captain Teresa Della Monica recently unveiled her battle with depression. As a child, Monica was determined and optimistic, but later in life things drastically changed. She divulged, it became more difficult, if not impossible, to surpass sadness. when suffering from depression, life seemed bleak and dark (Monica, 2018, p. 17) . She recalls being emotionally and mentally absent in activities, even though she was physically present. Monica's daily life was negatively influenced by the prolonged sadness that accompanies depression (Monica, […]

Exploring the Effects of Social Media on Depression and Suicide

I have grown up in a generation of social media users. Facebook, one of the most popular social media sites, was founded in 2004, when I was three. Four years later it had 100 million active users. Today, Facebook has 2.27 billion active users worldwide. Not only has Facebook’s popularity significantly increased but so has social media use in general. In 2010, 97 million people were social media users, today it’s 2.62 billion worldwide. And, it is estimated that 81% […]

Social Issue of Depression

The social issue of depression and suicide in older adulthood has an impact on lifespan development. The purpose of this essay is to define and show the extent to which this problem of depression and suicide in older adulthood is in America. It will also show the differences in cultural background, gender, and socioeconomic status that impact the chances of the elderly being diagnosed with depression. Next, it will use the biopsychosocial approach, to look at the issue of depression […]

Great Depression: Causes and Definition

The Great Depression was the worst economic problem in the history of the world, from 1929 to 1939. It caused many problem and difficulty like, Overproduction, Big crash, weak banking systems, and buying on margins. The Great Depression made everyone forget about the wealth, growth and prosperity of last period of ten years and face new economically unfair conditions of business and living in a bad situation. The government should’ve involve more in the Great Depression to help people and […]

About Undertreatment of Medical Student Depression

Introduction It is normal for students to feel overwhelmed due to the many demands of everyday life. With the number of deadlines that students are expected to meet throughout the school year,it is common to often neglect other areas of life. From skipping breakfast once in a while to pulling all-nighters for several consecutive nights, prioritizing other responsibilities becomes more difficult. One important aspect of one's life is his or her mental health. When one neglects this vital area, he […]

A Left Ventricular Assist Device

A Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) is a major cardiac surgery with many postoperative complications. Not only is an LVAD a significant surgery, but it also requires a lifestyle change outside of the hospital. Patients with LVADs will either be put on a heart transplant list, or the implantation of an LVAD may be the last resort for end-stage congestive heart failure. Accepting such changes and understanding the prognosis can be difficult for patients, both mentally and physically. A few […]

Substance Abuse Related to Depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that affects the mental state wellbeing of a person. It is a mental illness very commonly found in an adult age groups. Whereas, excessive use or depending on addictive substances such as alcohol and drugs refers to Substance abuse (web). The statistics of people diagnosed with depression and substance abuse can be seen as a growing problem in the society. According to the government estimate, 20% of the American adult is diagnosed with a […]

Felt that Depression

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Effects the Great Depression on African Americans

From the economic crisis in the 1930s to now, our country has developed greatly in medicine, technology, art, military weapons, and laws. However, since then prejudices are still apparent and people’s mindsets have stayed relatively the same from those of 100 years ago and are not open-minded like the development of medicine and weapons. The Great Depression impacted African Americans immensely in comparison to the white working class and farmers. Middle and lower class women being paid less compared to […]

Suicide and Depression

Every year thousands of people take their own life. People (especially teenagers) have depression and causes them to feel lonely and makes them feel like they don't have a purpose in the world. There is a lot of problems that teens go through that most people don’t see which can lead to teen suicide. Such as stress, cyberbullying, and in some cases it includes family issues. These problems may seem too hard or embarrassing to overcome. For some, suicide may […]

The Antichrist is Quite

The Antichrist is quite a peculiar and mysterious character of the Bible, appearing at the end times of man as an asset of the Devil, tasked with leading many away from the light of God. Though referenced only a handful of times in the Bible, the speculation of this ominous creature is broad and extensive, including many writings of what he may be like, when he will arrive on Earth, and what he will do. Heart of Darkness yields itself […]

Early Childhood Depression

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The Effect of Substance Abuse on Depression

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (2016) state, "the consequences of undiagnosed, untreated, or undertreated co-occurring disorders can lead to a higher likelihood of experiencing homelessness, incarceration, medical illnesses, suicide, or even early death (para. 2). One strategy to support the treatment of Rhonda is to provide help with regulating her emotions rather than how to cope with alcohol and nicotine cravings. In the study from Holzhauer & Gamble (2017), it was found that women with depression and […]

Depression is the most Common Mental

Depression is the most common mental disorder and a common cause of disability (Sjoberg et al., 2017). Niles, Smirnova, Lin, and O'Donovan (2018) stated that depression disorders can affect nearly 30% of the population at some point in their life. Despite how common depression is, there is still a well known stigma related to depression and other mental illnesses. For example, people with a mental illness are commonly viewed as less capable and intelligent, compared to the average mentally stable […]

Connection between Depression and Diabetes

Depression- Diagnosis, Etiology, and Epidemiology Depression is a commonly occurring, recurring disorder which can directly affect the quality of life, medical morbidity, and mortality. Major depression is ranked as the fourth leading cause of disability. Depression is a chronic mental disorder that can negatively impact the quality of life of the affected individual, taking away the ability to live a fulfilling life and decreasing the capacity to complete basic tasks (Fekadu et al., 2017). As a disease, it is growing […]

Men Succumb to Societal Pressures

Going off to college can be a pivotal moment in a young man’s life– he is away from home, has more independence, has to make new friends, etc. Once a young man is placed in a new environment surrounded by other men, they may feel obligated to “prove” themselves masculine through conventional masculine norms that may have adverse effects to their mental health. The fact that many men succumb to societal pressures to act anti-feminine, self-reliant, aggressive, etc., is important […]

How Cyberbullying Leads to Depression and Sucidie

As the uses of technology are rapidly rising, a new form of bullying has appeared. The newest form, known as cyberbullying, is, “the repeated use of technology to harass, humiliate or threaten” (Holladay, 2012). In South Hadley, Massachusetts, a new term “bullicide” was developed when Phoebe Prince committed suicide as a result of being cyberbullied. Phoebe was an Irish immigrant who was always going against societal norms. She chose to date boys who were (said by her peers) “too good […]

Social Media: Depression

There has been a point in someone’s life where they did not feel good enough. Everyone experiences not having the perfect body image, the perfect grades, or the popularity. Based off of a newsletter named “Healthline” they discovered that over 350 million people in the United States suffer from depression. One thing that does not help is social media. Social media provides a “perfect” standard that people believe they must stand by. For example, the apps Instagram and Snapchat, allow anyone […]

Catcher in the Rye Depression

The Catcher in the Rye, was written in 1951. Salinger, the author of this novel, was born January first 1919, and was widely known because of this book itself. There was no movie made based off the Catcher in the Rye because Salinger refused to sell movie rights. Even though Salinger passed away, his family still lives up to what he wants, which is to only have a book. Salinger worked on this book while fighting in World War II, […]

A Complete Blueprint For Writing An Impactful Essay On Depression

Home / Blog / A Complete Blueprint For Writing An Impactful Essay On Depression

The World Health Organisation states that depression is the most common illness worldwide. With more than 300 million people suffering from depression, close to 800000 people commit suicide due to severe bouts every year.

To help students cope with depression, they are often asked to write an essay on their mental conditions to give vent to the voices in their head. But, writing a compelling piece on a topic as sensitive as depression can be tough. It is not just about an outstanding introduction and a firm conclusion. It is about putting real emotions in words. The inability to put feelings into words is what leads most students to seek help for essay writing from professionals.

Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide To Writing A Critical Thinking Essay

If you are also one of those students who are struggling to deal with the intricacies of writing an essay on depression, then this blog will surely solve your problem to an extent. Read along to explore some crucial elements, step-by-step guide, examples and more.

Step-by-Step Guide to Write a Strong Essay on Depression

If you cannot figure out how to take a stance to convince readers or support your claims with compelling evidence, here is a step-by-step guide to help you out.

Have a look.

Choose an issue that needs redressal

One of the best ways of writing a remarkable argumentative essay is to choose an impressive topic. An argument essay is best served when the topic can be argued strongly, either for or against. Try to select a topic about which you have knowledge.

For example, you can choose to write an argumentative essay on the topic – “ Why teenagers are the most depressed?”

You can also take help in choosing a compelling prompt from professional essay writers.

Read Also: Things To Know About Writing A Cause And Effect Essay On “Bullying”

Conduct extensive research

After you have determined the topic, start conducting in-depth research. Look for resources, especially those that are connected with the epidemic of mental disorder in teens. Go through books, articles, blogs, and documentaries from credible sources. You can also read samples written by essay help experts. Read broadly and make sure to take note of the most common issues argued over the topic. Cover pressing matters, and try to find unique angles that haven’t been thoroughly explored yet.

You can conduct research and elaborate on the following factors:

Biological factors- family history of mental disorders
Behavioural factors- drugs or alcohol abuse
Social factors- isolation and loneliness
Psychological factors- early childhood trauma or a recent stressful experience
Draft a detailed outline

An excellent outline will help you ease the writing process. Although drafting a well-crafted outline can be time-consuming, all you have to do it is fill in the spaces afterwards.

You can take help of the infographic given below to draft an outline for the above mentioned topic:

Write a compelling introduction

The introduction is the first part of your essay that readers will read. Provide some background on your topic so that readers can comprehend what you are going to talk about. Try to define specific key terms. Finish with a solid thesis statement that clearly states the central argument of the essay.

“Teenage depression is increasing rapidly, but it is often treated erroneously. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 20% of people experience depression during their teen years. Each year, numerous stories of hundreds of adolescents committing suicide catch our attention.

Multiple causes of depression leading to disastrous effects can impair a teenager’s life. Primarily teenagers are observed to have two types of depression: major and minor. Major depression hinders a person’s life functions, while minor depression often builds up to a major one. Hence, it is essential to know the cause and symptoms to understand how to avoid and confront it.”

Write an informative body

The main body of your argumentative essay should include supporting paragraphs (advisably, 2) and counterarguments. Here is where you should include details of two sides of the coin and state the strongest points of the counter-side of your issue. Make sure that you provide evidence after stating your viewpoint and explaining the other side.

Also Read: How To Present A Self-Analysis Essay

If one is alert to the symptoms, it becomes easy to prevent the disease. Knowing the signs can also help teenagers refrain from depression, as they happen before they come under the dark shadow of depression. One of the primary symptoms is losing interest in all activities, sleeping too much or experiencing insomnia. Another significant symptom is Anhedonia, commonly noticed among adolescents. One should always remember that when symptoms of depression go unnoticed, it can bridge out to fatal stages.

However, the question arises why depression is such a common phenomenon in one’s teenage years. Researches have demonstrated that one of the primary causes of depression is extreme trauma. Teenagers are found to be depressed more when they are physically, sexually or mentally abused. Traumas also occur due to traumatic events like loss of parent, friends or due to medical illness.

One of the effective methods to overcome teenage depression is psychotherapy. Another solution is antidepressant medication. AU.S. study revealed that antidepressants helped in healing 50 per cent of depressed people. One of the best solutions is that depressed teenagers should share their thoughts with people they trust and love. They could pursue new interests or join a support group for depression. "

End with a strong concluding note

The conclusion is your last chance to impress your readers. It should give your essay a sense of completeness. Use a transition signal for the conclusion like ‘in conclusion’, ‘to conclude’, etc. End with a final comment that sends out a strong message to the readers.

“To conclude, depression is a terrible disease that must come to an end. It is crucial to address the issues and take preventive measures as soon as possible. However, awareness should also be increased on social levels to enlighten teenage individuals who suffer from depression. Society must realise that depression is a severe problem that should be addressed immediately to save thousands of lives in the near future.”

Also Read: Essay Writing 101: A Brief Guide To Citation Basics

Wrapping it up,

Writing a strong essay on depression is, no doubt, complicated. However, it does not have to be as challenging and strenuous as you imagine it to be. This complete study guide can help you find just the solution to it all. Take the help of this guide, implement the guidelines, draw inspiration from the examples and ace your semester with flying colours. Good Luck!

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Depression as a Psychological Disorder Essay

Introduction.

Depression is a popular mental condition that can affect anyone. It has various forms, symptoms, and ways of development, which may all be different for each person (Stringaris, 2017). The World Health Organization (2017) calculated in 2015 that 4.4% of the total world population suffers from depression, with 322 million unique cases registered worldwide (p. 8). Moreover, they concluded that since 2005 the number of people with depressive disorders increased by 18.4%, which “reflects the overall growth of the global population, as well as a proportionate increase in the age groups” (World Health Organization, 2017, p. 8). Thus, the topic of depression remains a scientific point of interest per the continuing growth of population numbers worldwide. Summarizing and evaluating the information that trusted journals have published on the topic of depression might help create a well-rounded review of the condition and the scientific community’s understanding of it.

The Present Definition of a Depressive Disorder

Depression can be defined as a disorder that affects a person’s mental health, resulting in a dampened emotional state for an extended time. It is an exhausting mental condition that affects people’s daily lives by influencing them towards adopting negative patterns of behavior (Lu, Li, Li, Wang, & Zhang, 2016). People with depression may respond to external stimuli dully and, thus, become unable to experience the same breadth of emotion that had previously been available to them. In turn, these circumstances lead to increased rates of suicide among those suffering from major depressive disorders, particularly among adolescents, making it a “potentially lethal” mental health condition (Stringaris, 2017, p. 1287). The World Health Organization (2017) distinguishes between depressive and anxiety disorders, outlining the fact that different circumstances cause the two problems. However, depression may be identified as retaining a leading position in mental health studies. This popularity may be due to its ability to be used as an umbrella term for different combinations of depressive symptoms.

The Background Mechanisms and Symptoms of Depression in Literature

The likely causes of depression can be gathered into a long list. Its lineup may include a person’s genetic predisposition, various environmental influences, hormonal fluctuations, and even traumatic life experiences. Initially, researchers even linked depressive disorders with a lack of serotonin, the absence which continues to be thought of as the leading cause of clinical depression (Cowen & Browning, 2015). However, no proven evidence regarding why people become depressed exists (World Health Organization, 2017). Nonetheless, hypotheses regarding chemical imbalances and disruptions of neural networks within the brain remain the process’s leading explanations (Cowen & Browning, 2015; Lu et al., 2016). Due to these continuing doubts within the scientific community, the most common identification for depression remains how a person behaves (Fried & Nesse, 2015). Therefore, while the origins of depression remain hidden, clinical practitioners continue paying close attention to how people reveal their illness to provide them with treatment.

Symptomatology is the mass of collected evidence regarding a person’s health. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a person should demonstrate at least five out of nine symptoms below to de considered depressed:

1. depressed mood; 2. markedly diminished interest or pleasure; 3. increase or decrease in either weight or appetite; 4. insomnia or hypersomnia; 5. psychomotor agitation or retardation; 6. fatigue or loss of energy; 7. feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt; 8. diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness; and 9. recurrent thoughts of death. (Fried & Nesse, 2015, p. 1-2).

While this list may not be considered final, it remains the basis for identifying depression. Nonetheless, it is essential to note that all people experience depression differently (Salk, Hyde, & Abramson, 2017). Furthermore, some symptoms may carry more weight during diagnosis than others (Fried, Epskamp, Nesse, Tuerlinckx, & Borsboom, 2016). Thus, the widely accepted DSM-5 standard relies on a person’s self-identification per their personal understanding of their behavior.

Treatment: Who and How

It may be appropriate to preface treatment options for depressive disorders with a highlight of groups that may be at risk. Research findings suggest that women report higher incidences of depression than men due to both their different socioeconomic positions and inherent “biological sex differences,” which link with hormonal changes, for example, different estrogen levels (Albert, 2015, p. 219; Mojtabai, Olfson, & Han, 2016). A paper by Salk et al. (2017) reports that this difference between the numbers of depressed men and women reaches its highest point during adolescence, evening out only after teenagers reach adulthood. Considering additional factors, such as “abuse, education and income,” may also help identify other population levels that could be susceptible to depression (Albert, 2015, p. 219). Thus, while women retain a higher possibility of becoming depressed, other factors that are independent of gender also play a role in deciding at-risk groups.

Depression’s treatment can merely attempt to correct people’s behavior, considering the hidden nature of its causes. Thus, antidepressants may be highlighted as remaining the most popular treatment option. The “pharmacological actions of drugs” continue to be the best currently available link to both treating the condition and examining what may cause it (Cowen & Browning, 2015, p. 158). However, the majority of antidepressants cause side effects that are equal to the symptoms of depression, for example, lessened emotional responsivity, fatigue, and suicidal tendencies (Fried & Nesse, 2015). This fact is particularly painful to consider in combination with the findings of a paper by Mojtabai et al. (2016) that states that treatment trends from “2005 to 2014” have remained unchanged (p. 6). Therefore, it may be assumed that the continuing lack of knowledge regarding the causes of depression may be preventing its treatment methods from progressing to new levels.

The Problem with Defining Depression

The scientific community may be moving towards rejecting using depression as an umbrella term. Instead, it could be showing a tendency to focus on people’s individual experiences. The ongoing research processes struggle to identify depression as either a sum of its symptoms or a separate condition (Fried & Nesse, 2015). Furthermore, most researchers cannot agree on whether the depressive disorder is a spectrum or a sequence of events (Stringaris, 2017). However, they admit that rejecting depression, as a term, would be harmful to mental health practice (Stringaris, 2017). Thus, when Stringaris (2017) asks, “What is depression?” it is not a rhetorical question, but rather a recognition of the current state of affairs (p. 1288). Therefore, the findings of researchers who attempt to categorize people by their population type, for example, Albert (2015), Mojtabai et al. (2016), and Salk et al. (2017), become problematic per their disregard for depression’s subgroups. The fact that people with different symptoms and magnitudes of depression can be considered ill could be a continuing research restriction.

Recognizing the existence of varying stages of depression should lead to questioning the proposed DSM-5 symptom-checker since it is the one on which most of the diagnoses are based. Both studies by Fried and Nesse (2015) and Fried et al. (2016) support the idea that personal experiences remain more critical during diagnosis than checklists. Haroz et al. (2017) further outline the DSM-5 as a western-oriented mental healthcare tool that does not carry the same effect for non-western populations. These facts may be in line with current research trends, as they seem to discourage using depression as an umbrella term. However, as identified by Stringaris (2017), this development could lead to either a perfection of existing clinical approaches or “vast confusion among clinicians and patients” (p. 1288). Thus, while these research papers could help define the future of depression awareness, the benefits of the foundation provided by the DSM-5 should not be rejected.

Existing Hindrances to Perfecting Treatment Methods

The used literature may indicate a continuing period of inactivity in developing new treatment methods for depression. This area of study remains mainly medicine-focused, full of side effects, and directed towards removing the illness’s symptoms rather than the sickness itself. The two existing brain-related and chemical explanations for depression may be the most traditional, but they too remain underdeveloped and under-tested. Lu et al. (2016) recognize that their cited and conducted experiments, which focus on rodents and mice, can have only a limited number of suggestions for treating human depression. However, the paper by Cowen and Browning (2015) that highlights the chemical serotonin as the catalyst for people’s “emotional processing” during treatment may hold serious meaning for future research (p. 160). Nonetheless, the continuing lack of answers regarding the causes of depression, its nature, and progress may pose the biggest problem in finding a cure.

The Future of Current Research Trends

The existing differences within the mental health scientific community may be driving the topic of depression in different directions. The statistics regarding the worldwide numbers of depressed people may become troublesome to consider since Haroz et al. (2017) claim that different cultures report depression differently. Thus, focusing on at-risk groups with an approach that raises awareness for mental health may be the future of depression studies (Mojtabai et al., 2016). Moreover, Stringaris (2017) urges researchers to “being open to the fact that both [depression’s] content may prove heterogeneous, and that its boundaries may need to shift” (p. 128). Thus, research still has to prove most facts about depression. However, a lack of definitive answers may mean a greater extent of flexibility when deciding the appropriate research and treatment methods.

The carried out literature review allowed outlining the major scientific trends in modern-day depression studies. Depression remains one of the most popularly studied mental health conditions, with researchers applying the term to people who show any combination of its many symptoms. However, the cause of the sickness remains unknown, which prevents researchers from predicting how it can progress. As such, depression studies retain a high amount of flexibility, which may be considered both a positive and negative thing. Thus, current trends focus on instead promoting different sides of depressive disorder studies, from determining at-risk groups to documenting brain processes during illness through conducting experiments. By doing so, researchers hope to understand the disease’s origins through testing various treatment methods. This development may expand the current understanding of depressive disorders’ different features. Therefore, modern depression research remains an ongoing process that hopes to better the quality of care provided to those suffering from the condition.

Albert, P. R. (2015). Why is depression more prevalent in women? Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience: JPN , 40 (4), 219-221. Web.

Cowen, P. J., & Browning, M. (2015). What has serotonin to do with depression? World Psychiatry , 14 (2), 158-160. Web.

Fried, E. I., & Nesse, R. M. (2015). Depression sum-scores don’t add up: Why analyzing specific depression symptoms is essential. BMC Medicine , 13 (1), 1-11. Web.

Fried, E. I., Epskamp, S., Nesse, R. M., Tuerlinckx, F., & Borsboom, D. (2016). What are ‘good’ depression symptoms? Comparing the centrality of DSM and non-DSM symptoms of depression in a network analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders , 189 , 314-320. Web.

Haroz, E. E., Ritchey, M., Bass, J. K., Kohrt, B. A., Augustinavicius, J., Michalopoulos, L.,… Bolton, P. (2017). How is depression experienced around the world? A systematic review of qualitative literature. Social Science & Medicine , 183 , 1-29. Web.

Lu, C., Li, Q., Li, Y., Wang, Y., & Zhang, Y. F. (2016). A short glance at the neural circuitry mechanism underlying depression. World Journal of Neuroscience , 6 (03), 184-192. Web.

Mojtabai, R., Olfson, M., & Han, B. (2016). National trends in the prevalence and treatment of depression in adolescents and young adults. Pediatrics , 138 (6), 1-10. Web.

Salk, R. H., Hyde, J. S., & Abramson, L. Y. (2017). Gender differences in depression in representative national samples: Meta-analyses of diagnoses and symptoms. Psychological Bulletin , 143 (8), 783. Web.

Stringaris, A. (2017). What is depression? Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry , 58 (12), 1287-1289. Web.

World Health Organization. (2017). Depression and other common mental disorders: Global health estimates . Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization.

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Essay on Depression

Depression, a common yet often misunderstood mental health disorder, intricately intertwines with our thinking patterns. This essay aims to explore the depths of depression, how it affects thinking, and the broader implications for individuals, particularly for students engaging in essay writing competitions.

Depression is more than just a fleeting sense of sadness. It is a clinical condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in life. Its symptoms range from changes in sleep and appetite to difficulty concentrating and feelings of worthlessness.

The Science Behind Depression

Depression stems from a complex interaction of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Neuroscientific research suggests that depression is linked to changes in neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin and dopamine, and neural circuitry in the brain.

Depression’s Impact on Thinking

Depression significantly affects cognitive processes. It alters the way individuals perceive themselves, their lives, and the world around them.

Negative Thought Patterns : Individuals with depression often experience persistent negative thoughts. They may have a pessimistic view of themselves, believing they are inadequate or worthless.
Rumination : Those suffering from depression tend to ruminate, or excessively think about their problems and distress. This rumination can create a vicious cycle, exacerbating depressive symptoms and impairing problem-solving.
Impaired Cognitive Functioning : Depression can affect concentration, memory, and decision-making capabilities. It can lead to difficulties in focusing and retaining information, impacting academic and professional performance.
Distorted Reality : In severe cases, depression can lead to distorted thinking, where one’s perception of reality is significantly impaired. This might include having an overly negative interpretation of minor events or believing in things that have no basis in reality.

The Role of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a common and effective treatment for depression. It is based on the concept that changing negative thinking patterns and behaviors can lead to changes in emotions.

Identifying Negative Thoughts : CBT involves recognizing and challenging negative thought patterns.
Behavioral Activation : It encourages engaging in activities that are rewarding or enjoyable, even when one doesn’t feel like it.
Developing Coping Strategies : CBT helps in developing practical skills to manage symptoms and cope with challenges.

Depression in Adolescents and Young Adults

Depression in adolescents and young adults is a serious mental health concern that can have significant and lasting effects on individuals’ lives. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Prevalence: Depression is not uncommon among adolescents and young adults. It is estimated that around 15% of teenagers will experience at least one major depressive episode before reaching adulthood.
Symptoms: The symptoms of depression in this age group can vary but often include persistent sadness, changes in sleep and appetite, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and even thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Impact on Daily Life: Depression can severely disrupt daily life. Young people with depression may struggle academically, socially, and in their family relationships. It can lead to school absenteeism, social withdrawal, and even substance abuse.
Risk Factors: Various factors can increase the risk of depression in adolescents and young adults, including genetic predisposition, family history of depression, trauma or abuse, chronic illness, and high levels of stress.
Co-Occurring Disorders: Depression often co-occurs with other mental health issues, such as anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders, making diagnosis and treatment more complex.
Barriers to Seeking Help: Many adolescents and young adults may hesitate to seek help for depression due to stigma, lack of awareness, or fear of judgment. This can delay diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment Options: Treatment for depression typically includes psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy), medication (in some cases), lifestyle changes (like regular exercise and a healthy diet), and support from family and friends.
Importance of Early Intervention: Early intervention is crucial in managing depression. Recognizing the signs and symptoms and seeking help promptly can improve outcomes and prevent the worsening of the condition.
Prevention: Efforts to prevent depression in this age group include promoting emotional resilience, teaching coping skills, providing a supportive environment, and reducing stressors when possible.
Family and Peer Support: The support of family members and friends is invaluable in helping adolescents and young adults cope with depression. Open communication and understanding can make a significant difference.
Educational and Community Resources: Schools and communities can play a vital role in recognizing and addressing depression. Educational programs and accessible mental health resources can benefit young individuals.

Breaking the Stigma

There is a significant stigma attached to depression, often preventing individuals from seeking help. Breaking this stigma is essential.

Open Conversations : Encouraging discussions about mental health can foster a more supportive environment.
Education and Awareness : Educating people about the realities of depression is crucial in dispelling myths and misconceptions.
Promoting Mental Health Resources : Access to mental health resources and counseling should be promoted in schools and workplaces.

Personal Reflections in Essay Writing

When writing about depression, it’s important to:

Use Empathetic Language : Be sensitive and understanding in your choice of words.
Incorporate Personal Narratives : If comfortable, sharing personal experiences can provide a powerful perspective.
Highlight Resilience and Hope : Focus on stories of overcoming challenges, resilience, and the potential for positive change.

In conclusion, Depression, a complex interplay of emotional, cognitive, and biological factors, profoundly impacts thinking patterns. Understanding this relationship is crucial, especially for students who may face academic and social pressures that can exacerbate these issues. Writing about depression in a thoughtful, informed, and empathetic manner not only raises awareness but also contributes to a more supportive and understanding society. As we continue to explore and understand depression, we open doors to more effective treatments and a world where mental health is given the attention and care it deserves.

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Essay On Depression: Causes, Symptoms And Effects

Our life is full of emotional ups and downs, but when the time of down lasts too long or influences our ability to function, in this case, probably, you suffer from common serious illness, which is called depression. Clinical depression affects your mood, thinking process, your body and behaviour. According to the researches, in the United States about 19 million people, i.e. one in ten adults, annually suffer from depression, and about 2/3 of them do not get necessary help. An appropriate treatment can alleviate symptoms of depression in more than 80% of such cases. However, since depression is usually not recognized, it continues to cause unnecessary suffering.

Depression is a disease that dominates you and weakens your body, it influences men as well as women, but women experience depression about two times more often than men.

Since this issue is very urgent nowadays, we decided to write this cause and effect essay on depression to attract the public attention one more time to this problem. I hope it will be informative and instructive for you. If you are interested in reading essays on similar or any other topic, you should visit our website . There you will find not only various essays, but also you can get help in essay writing . All you need is to contact our team, and everything else we will do for you.

Depression is a strong psychological disorder, from which usually suffers not only a patients, but also his / hers family, relatives, friends etc.

General information

More often depression develops on the basis of stress or prolonged traumatic situation. Frequently depressive disorders hide under the guise of a bad mood or temper features. In order to prevent severe consequences it is important to figure out how and why depression begins.

Symptoms and causes of depression

As a rule, depression develops slowly and insensibly for a person and for his close ones. At the initial stage most of people are not aware about their illness, because they think that many symptoms are just the features of their personality. Experiencing inner discomfort, which can be difficult to express in words, people do not ask for professional help, as a rule. They usually go to doctor at the moment, when the disease is already firmly holds the patient causing unbearable suffering.

Risk factors for depression:

being female;
the presence of depression in family anamnesis;
early depression in anamnesis;
early loss of parents;
the experience of violence in anamnesis;
personal features;
stressors (parting, guilt);
alcohol / drug addiction;
neurological diseases (Parkinson's disease, apoplexy).

Signs of depression

Depression influences negatively all the aspects of human life. Inadequate psychological defense mechanisms, in their turn, affect destructively not only psychological, but also biological processes.

The first signs of depression are apathy, not depending on the circumstances, indifference to everything what is going on, weakening of motor activity; these are the main clinical symptoms of depression . If their combination is observed for more than two weeks, urgent professional help is required.

Psychological symptoms:

depressed mood, unhappiness;
loss of interest, reduced motivation, loss of energy;
self-doubt, guilt, inner emptiness;
decrease in speed of thinking, inability to make decisions;
anxiety, fear and pessimism about the future;
daily fluctuations;
possible delirium;
suicidal thoughts.

Somatic symptoms:

vital disorders;
disturbed sleep (early waking, oversleeping);
eating disorders;
constipation;
feeling of tightness of the skull, dizziness, feeling of compression;
vegetative symptoms.

Causes of depression

It is accepted to think in modern psychiatry that the development of depression, as well as most of other mental disorders, requires the combined effect of three factors: psychological, biological and social.

Psychological factor (“Personality structure”)

There are three types of personality especially prone to depression:

1) “Statothymic personality” that is characterized by exaggerated conscientiousness, diligence, accuracy;

2) Melancholic personality type with its desire for order, constancy, pedantry, exessive demands on itself;

3) Hyperthymic type of personality that is characterized by self-doubt, frequent worries, with obviously low self-esteem.

People, whose organism biologically tends to depression development, due to education and other social environmental factors form such personality features, which in adverse social situations, especially while chronic stress, cause failure of psychological adaptation mechanisms, skills to deal with stress or lack of coping strategies.

Such people are characterized by:

lack of confidence in their own abilities;
excessive secrecy and isolation;
excessive self-critical attitude towards yourself;
waiting for the support of the close ones;
developed pessimism;
inability to resist stress situations;
emotional expressiveness.

Biological factor:

the presence of unfavorable heredity;
somatic and neurological head injury that violated brain activity;
changes in the hormonal system;
chronobiological factors: seasonal depressive disorders, daily fluctuations, shortening of REM sleep;
side effects of some medications.
Heredity and family tendency to depression play significant role in predisposition to this disease. It is noticed that relatives of those who suffer from depression usually have different psychosomatic disorders.

Social factor:

the presence of frequent stress situations, chronic stress;
adverse family relationships;
adverse childhood experience, the absence of tenderness from parents, ill-treatment and sexual harassment, interpersonal loss, severe methods of education, negative childhood memories;
urbanization;
significant changes in the life;
population migration;
increased lifetime.

People in a state of chronic stress suffer from depression more often. If some acute stress situation happens during the period of chronic stress, the probability of depression symptoms development increases.

If you decide to fight the depression, remember that you are not alone! Every fifth person in the world at least once in the life experienced depression. If you notice the signs of depression that disturb you for more than two weeks, you should go to the specialist.

Do not delay visit, in this case time does not heal. The professionalism of the doctors and a complex program of treatment will help to get rid of any kind of depression.

Where to go for help

If you do not where to go for help, ask your family physician, obstetrician, gynecologist or the clinic. In an emergency situation, the emergency doctor can provide temporary help for patients with emotional problems and give them an advice where and how they can ask for the further help.

Here is the list of people and organizations that can diagnose and suggest a course of treatment, or can give a direction to the examination and treatment.

Family doctors.
Such specialists as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and consultants on mental health.
Health maintenance organizations.
Local centers for the treatment of mental illness.
The Department of Psychiatry in hospitals and outpatient clinics.
Programs at universities and medical schools.
Family assistance services and social services departments.
Private clinics and institutions.
Care centers in the workplace.
Local health and (or) mental health communities.

It is very important in depressive episode treatment to understand that this is depression of a certain person, do not make attempts to excessive generalization of symptoms and factors of disease development. It requires personal approach to each patient.

So, as you can see, depression is a serious disease that requires professional treatment. If you manage to recognize the signs of depression at its early stage and ask for professional help, you can successfully overcome this problem. I hope this essay about depression was useful for you, and you got what you were looking for.

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434 Depression Essay Titles & Research Topics: Argumentative, Controversial, and More

Depression is undeniably one of the most prevalent mental health conditions globally, affecting approximately 5% of adults worldwide. It often manifests as intense feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities. Many also experience physical symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, and appetite changes. Recognizing and addressing this mental disorder is extremely important to save lives and treat the condition.

In this article, we’ll discuss how to write an essay about depression and introduce depression essay topics and research titles for students that may be inspirational.

🔝 Top Depression Essay Titles
✅ Essay Prompts
💡 Research Topics
🔎 Essay Titles
💭 Speech Topics
📝 Essay Structure

🔗 References

🔝 top 12 research titles about depression.

How is depression treated?
Depression: Risk factors.
The symptoms of depression.
What types of depression exist?
Depression in young people.
Differences between anxiety and depression.
The parents’ role in depression therapy.
Drugs as the root cause of depression.
Dangerous consequences of untreated depression.
Effect of long-term depression.
Different stages of depression.
Treatment for depression.

The picture provides a list of topics for a research paper about depression.

✅ Prompts for Essay about Depression

Struggling to find inspiration for your essay? Look no further! We’ve put together some valuable essay prompts on depression just for you!

Prompt for Personal Essay about Depression

Sharing your own experience with depression in a paper can be a good idea. Others may feel more motivated to overcome their situation after reading your story. You can also share valuable advice by discussing things or methods that have personally helped you deal with the condition.

For example, in your essay about depression, you can:

Tell about the time you felt anxious, hopeless, or depressed;
Express your opinion on depression based on the experiences from your life;
Suggest a way of dealing with the initial symptoms of depression ;
Share your ideas on how to protect mental health at a young age.

How to Overcome Depression: Essay Prompt

Sadness is a common human emotion, but depression encompasses more than just sadness. As reported by the National Institute of Mental Health, around 21 million adults in the United States, roughly 8.4% of the total adult population , faced at least one significant episode of depression in 2020. When crafting your essay about overcoming depression, consider exploring the following aspects:

Depression in young people and adolescents;
The main causes of depression;
The symptoms of depression;
Ways to treat depression;
Help from a psychologist (cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy ).

Postpartum Depression: Essay Prompt

The birth of a child often evokes a spectrum of powerful emotions, spanning from exhilaration and happiness to apprehension and unease. It can also trigger the onset of depression. Following childbirth, many new mothers experience postpartum “baby blues,” marked by shifts in mood, bouts of tears, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. To shed light on the subject of postpartum depression, explore the following questions:

What factors may increase the risk of postpartum depression?
Is postpartum depression predictable?
How to prevent postpartum depression?
What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?
What kinds of postpartum depression treatments exist?

Prompt for Essay about Teenage Depression

Teenage depression is a mental health condition characterized by sadness and diminishing interest in daily activities. It can significantly impact a teenager’s thoughts, emotions, and behavior, often requiring long-term treatment and support.

By discussing the primary symptoms of teenage depression in your paper, you can raise awareness of the issue and encourage those in need to seek assistance. You can pay attention to the following aspects:

Emotional changes (feelings of sadness, anger, hopelessness, guilt, etc.);
Behavioral changes (loss of energy and appetite , less attention to personal hygiene, self-harm, etc.);
New addictions (drugs, alcohol, computer games, etc.).

💡 Research Topics about Depression

The role of genetics in depression development.
The effectiveness of different psychotherapeutic interventions for depression.
Anti-depression non-pharmacological and medication treatment .
The impact of childhood trauma on the onset of depression later in life.
Exploring the efficacy of antidepressant medication in different populations.
The impact of exercise on depression symptoms and treatment outcomes.
Mild depression: pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy .
The relationship between sleep disturbances and depression.
The role of gut microbiota in depression and potential implications for treatment.
Investigating the impact of social media on depression rates in adolescents.
Depression, dementia, and delirium in older people .
The efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy in preventing depression relapse.
The influence of hormonal changes on depression risk.
Assessing the effectiveness of self-help and digital interventions for depression.
Herbal and complementary therapies for depression .
The relationship between personality traits and vulnerability to depression.
Investigating the long-term consequences of untreated depression on physical health.
Exploring the link between chronic pain and depression.
Depression in the elderly male .
The impact of childhood experiences on depression outcomes in adulthood.
The use of ketamine and other novel treatments for depression.
The effect of stigma on depression diagnosis and treatment.
The conducted family assessment: cases of depression .
The role of social support in depression recovery.
The effectiveness of online support groups for individuals with depression.
Depression and cognitive decline in adults.
Depression: PICOT question component exploration .
Exploring the impact of nutrition and dietary patterns on depression symptoms.
Investigating the efficacy of art-based therapies in depression treatment.
The role of neuroplasticity in the development and treatment of depression.
Depression among HIV-positive women .
The influence of gender on depression prevalence and symptomatology.
Investigating the impact of workplace factors on depression rates and outcomes.
The efficacy of family-based interventions in reducing depression symptoms in teenagers.
Frontline nurses’ burnout, anxiety, depression, and fear statuses .
The role of early-life stress and adversity in depression vulnerability.
The impact of various environmental factors on depression rates.
Exploring the link between depression and cardiovascular health .
Depression detection in adults in nursing practice .
Virtual reality as a therapeutic tool for depression treatment.
Investigating the impact of childhood bullying on depression outcomes.
The benefits of animal-assisted interventions in depression management.
Depression and physical exercise .
The relationship between depression and suicidal behavior .
The influence of cultural factors on depression symptom expression.
Investigating the role of epigenetics in depression susceptibility.
Depression associated with cognitive dysfunction .
Exploring the impact of adverse trauma on the course of depression.
The efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy in treating depression.
The relationship between depression and substance use disorders .
Depression and anxiety among college students .
Investigating the effectiveness of group therapy for depression.
Depression and chronic medical conditions .

Psychology Research Topics on Depression

The influence of early attachment experiences on the development of depression.
The impact of negative cognitive biases on depression symptomatology.
Depression treatment plan for a queer patient .
Examining the relationship between perfectionism and depression.
The role of self-esteem in depression vulnerability and recovery.
Exploring the link between maladaptive thinking styles (e.g., rumination, catastrophizing) and depression.
Investigating the impact of social support on depression outcomes and resilience.
Identifying depression in young adults at an early stage .
The influence of parenting styles on the risk of depression in children and adolescents.
The role of self-criticism and self-compassion in depression treatment.
Exploring the relationship between identity development and depression in emerging adulthood.
The role of learned helplessness in understanding depression and its treatment.
Depression in the elderly .
Examining the connection between self-efficacy beliefs and depression symptoms.
The influence of social comparison processes on depression and body image dissatisfaction .
Exploring the impact of trauma-related disorders on depression.
The role of resilience factors in buffering against the development of depression.
Investigating the relationship between personality traits and depression.
Depression and workplace violence .
The impact of cultural factors on depression prevalence and symptom presentation.
Investigating the effects of chronic stress on depression risk.
The role of coping strategies in depression management and recovery.
The correlation between discrimination/prejudice and depression/anxiety .
Exploring the influence of gender norms and societal expectations on depression rates.
The impact of adverse workplace conditions on employee depression.
Investigating the effectiveness of narrative therapy in treating depression.
Cognitive behavior and depression in adolescents .
Childhood emotional neglect and adult depression.
The influence of perceived social support on treatment outcomes in depression.
The effects of childhood bullying on the development of depression.
The impact of intergenerational transmission of depression within families.
Depression in children: symptoms and treatments .
Investigating the link between body dissatisfaction and depression in adolescence.
The influence of adverse life events and chronic stressors on depression risk.
The effects of peer victimization on the development of depression in adolescence.
Counselling clients with depression and addiction .
The role of experiential avoidance in depression and its treatment.
The impact of social media use and online interactions on depression rates.
Depression management in adolescent .
Exploring the relationship between emotional intelligence and depression symptomatology.
Investigating the influence of cultural values and norms on depression stigma and help-seeking behavior.
The effects of childhood maltreatment on neurobiological markers of depression.
Psychological and emotional conditions of suicide and depression .
Exploring the relationship between body dissatisfaction and depression.
The influence of self-worth contingencies on depression vulnerability and treatment response.
The impact of social isolation and loneliness on depression rates.
Psychology of depression among college students .
The effects of perfectionistic self-presentation on depression in college students.
The role of mindfulness skills in depression prevention and relapse prevention.
Investigating the influence of adverse neighborhood conditions on depression risk.
Personality psychology and depression .
The impact of attachment insecurity on depression symptomatology.

Postpartum Depression Research Topics

Identifying risk factors for postpartum depression.
Exploring the role of hormonal changes in postpartum depression.
“Baby blues” or postpartum depression and evidence-based care .
The impact of social support on postpartum depression.
The effectiveness of screening tools for early detection of postpartum depression.
The relationship between postpartum depression and maternal-infant bonding .
Postpartum depression educational program results .
Identifying effective interventions for preventing and treating postpartum depression.
Examining the impact of cultural factors on postpartum depression rates.
Investigating the role of sleep disturbances in postpartum depression.
Depression and postpartum depression relationship .
Exploring the impact of a traumatic birth experience on postpartum depression.
Assessing the impact of breastfeeding difficulties on postpartum depression.
Understanding the role of genetic factors in postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression: consequences .
Investigating the impact of previous psychiatric history on postpartum depression risk.
The potential benefits of exercise on postpartum depression symptoms.
The efficacy of psychotherapeutic interventions for postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression in the twenty-first century .
The influence of partner support on postpartum depression outcomes.
Examining the relationship between postpartum depression and maternal self-esteem.
The impact of postpartum depression on infant development and well-being.
Maternal mood symptoms in pregnancy and postpartum depression .
The effectiveness of group therapy for postpartum depression management.
Identifying the role of inflammation and immune dysregulation in postpartum depression.
Investigating the impact of childcare stress on postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression among low-income US mothers .
The role of postnatal anxiety symptoms in postpartum depression.
The impact of postpartum depression on the marital relationship.
The influence of postpartum depression on parenting practices and parental stress.
Postpartum depression: symptoms, role of cultural factors, and ways to support .
Investigating the efficacy of pharmacological treatments for postpartum depression.
The impact of postpartum depression on breastfeeding initiation and continuation.
The relationship between postpartum depression and post-traumatic stress disorder .
Postpartum depression and its identification .
The impact of postpartum depression on cognitive functioning and decision-making.
Investigating the influence of cultural norms and expectations on postpartum depression rates.
The impact of maternal guilt and shame on postpartum depression symptoms.
Beck’s postpartum depression theory: purpose, concepts, and significance .
Understanding the role of attachment styles in postpartum depression vulnerability.
Investigating the effectiveness of online support groups for women with postpartum depression.
The impact of socioeconomic factors on postpartum depression prevalence.
Perinatal depression: research study and design .
The efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions for postpartum depression.
Investigating the influence of birth spacing on postpartum depression risk.
The role of trauma history in postpartum depression development.
The link between the birth experience and postnatal depression .
How does postpartum depression affect the mother-infant interaction and bonding ?
The effectiveness of home visiting programs in preventing and managing postpartum depression.
Assessing the influence of work-related stress on postpartum depression.
The relationship between postpartum depression and pregnancy-related complications.
The role of personality traits in postpartum depression vulnerability.

🔎 Depression Essay Titles

Depression essay topics: cause & effect.

The effects of childhood trauma on the development of depression in adults.
The impact of social media usage on the prevalence of depression in adolescents.
“Predictors of Postpartum Depression” by Katon et al.
The effects of environmental factors on depression rates.
The relationship between academic pressure and depression among college students.
The relationship between financial stress and depression.
The best solution to predict depression because of bullying .
How does long-term unemployment affect mental health ?
The effects of unemployment on mental health, particularly the risk of depression.
The impact of genetics and family history of depression on an individual’s likelihood of developing depression.
The relationship between depression and substance abuse .
Child abuse and depression .
The role of gender in the manifestation and treatment of depression.
The effects of chronic stress on the development of depression.
The link between substance abuse and depression.
Depression among students at Elon University .
The influence of early attachment styles on an individual’s vulnerability to depression.
The effects of sleep disturbances on the severity of depression.
Chronic illness and the risk of developing depression.
Depression: symptoms and treatment .
Adverse childhood experiences and the likelihood of experiencing depression in adulthood.
The relationship between chronic illness and depression.
The role of negative thinking patterns in the development of depression.
Effects of depression among adolescents .
The effects of poor body image and low self-esteem on the prevalence of depression.
The influence of social support systems on preventing symptoms of depression.
The effects of child neglect on adult depression rates.
Depression caused by hormonal imbalance .
The link between perfectionism and the risk of developing depression.
The effects of a lack of sleep on depression symptoms.
The effects of childhood abuse and neglect on the risk of depression.
Social aspects of depression and anxiety .
The impact of bullying on the likelihood of experiencing depression.
The role of serotonin and neurotransmitter imbalances in the development of depression.
The impact of a poor diet on depression rates.
Depression and anxiety run in the family .
The effects of childhood poverty and socioeconomic status on depression rates in adults.
The impact of divorce on depression rates.
The relationship between traumatic life events and the risk of developing depression.
The influence of personality traits on susceptibility to depression.
The impact of workplace stress on depression rates.
Depression in older adults: causes and treatment .
The impact of parental depression on children’s mental health outcomes.
The effects of social isolation on the prevalence and severity of depression.
The role of cultural factors in the manifestation and treatment of depression.
The relationship between childhood bullying victimization and future depressive symptoms.
The impact of early intervention and prevention programs on reducing the risk of postpartum depression.
Treating mood disorders and depression .
How do hormonal changes during pregnancy contribute to the development of depression?
The effects of sleep deprivation on the onset and severity of postpartum depression.
The impact of social media on depression rates among teenagers.
The role of genetics in the development of depression.
The impact of bullying on adolescent depression rates.
Mental illness, depression, and wellness issues .
The effects of a sedentary lifestyle on depression symptoms.
The correlation between academic pressure and depression in students.
The relationship between perfectionism and depression.
The correlation between trauma and depression in military veterans.
Anxiety and depression during childhood and adolescence .
The impact of racial discrimination on depression rates among minorities.
The relationship between chronic pain and depression.
The impact of social comparison on depression rates among young adults.
The effects of childhood abuse on adult depression rates.

Depression Argumentative Essay Topics

The role of social media in contributing to depression among teenagers.
The effectiveness of antidepressant medication: an ongoing debate.
Depression treatment: therapy or medications ?
Should depression screening be mandatory in schools and colleges?
Is there a genetic predisposition to depression?
The stigma surrounding depression: addressing misconceptions and promoting understanding.
Implementation of depression screening in primary care .
Is psychotherapy more effective than medication in treating depression?
Is teenage depression overdiagnosed or underdiagnosed: a critical analysis.
The connection between depression and substance abuse: untangling the relationship.
Humanistic therapy of depression .
Should ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) be a treatment option for severe depression?
Where is depression more prevalent: in urban or rural communities? Analyzing the disparities.
Is depression a result of chemical imbalance in the brain? Debunking the myth.
Depression: a serious mental and behavioral problem .
Should depression medication be prescribed for children and adolescents?
The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in managing depression.
Should depression in the elderly be considered a normal part of aging?
Is depression hereditary? Investigating the role of genetics in depression risk.
Different types of training in managing the symptoms of depression .
The effectiveness of online therapy platforms in treating depression.
Should psychedelic therapy be explored as an alternative treatment for depression?
The connection between depression and cardiovascular health: Is there a link?
The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in preventing depression relapse.
Depression as a bad a clinical condition .
Should mind-body interventions (e.g., yoga , meditation) be integrated into depression treatment?
Should emotional support animals be prescribed for individuals with depression?
The effectiveness of peer support groups in decreasing depression symptoms.
The use of antidepressants: are they overprescribed or necessary for treating depression?
Adult depression and anxiety as a complex problem .
The effectiveness of therapy versus medication in treating depression.
The stigma surrounding depression and mental illness: how can we reduce it?
The debate over the legalization of psychedelic drugs for treating depression.
The relationship between creativity and depression: does one cause the other?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy for generalized anxiety disorder and depression .
The role of childhood trauma in shaping adult depression: Is it always a causal factor?
The debate over the medicalization of sadness and grief as forms of depression.
Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture or meditation, are effective in treating depression.
Depression as a widespread mental condition .

Controversial Topics about Depression

The existence of “chemical imbalance” in depression: fact or fiction?
The over-reliance on medication in treating depression: are alternatives neglected?
Is depression overdiagnosed and overmedicated in Western society?
Measurement of an individual’s level of depression .
The role of Big Pharma in shaping the narrative and treatment of depression.
Should antidepressant advertisements be banned?
The inadequacy of current diagnostic criteria for depression: rethinking the DSM-5.
Is depression a biological illness or a product of societal factors?
Literature review on depression .
The overemphasis on biological factors in depression treatment: ignoring environmental factors.
Is depression a normal reaction to an abnormal society?
The influence of cultural norms on the perception and treatment of depression.
Should children and adolescents be routinely prescribed antidepressants?
The role of family in depression treatment .
The connection between depression and creative genius: does depression enhance artistic abilities?
The ethics of using placebo treatment for depression studies.
The impact of social and economic inequalities on depression rates.
Is depression primarily a mental health issue or a social justice issue?
Depression disassembling and treating .
Should depression screening be mandatory in the workplace?
The influence of gender bias in the diagnosis and treatment of depression.
The controversial role of religion and spirituality in managing depression.
Is depression a result of individual weakness or societal factors?
Abnormal psychology: anxiety and depression case .
The link between depression and obesity: examining the bidirectional relationship.
The connection between depression and academic performance : causation or correlation?
Should depression medication be available over the counter?
The impact of internet and social media use on depression rates: harmful or beneficial?
Interacting in the workplace: depression .
Is depression a modern epidemic or simply better diagnosed and identified?
The ethical considerations of using animals in depression research.
The effectiveness of psychedelic therapies for treatment-resistant depression.
Is depression a disability? The debate on workplace accommodations.
Polysubstance abuse among adolescent males with depression .
The link between depression and intimate partner violence : exploring the relationship.
The controversy surrounding “happy” pills and the pursuit of happiness.
Is depression a choice? Examining the role of personal responsibility.

Good Titles for Depression Essays

The poetic depictions of depression: exploring its representation in literature.
The melancholic symphony: the influence of depression on classical music.
Moderate depression symptoms and treatment .
Depression in modern music: analyzing its themes and expressions.
Cultural perspectives on depression: a comparative analysis of attitudes in different countries.
Contrasting cultural views on depression in Eastern and Western societies.
Diagnosing depression in the older population .
The influence of social media on attitudes and perceptions of depression in global contexts.
Countries with progressive approaches to mental health awareness.
From taboo to acceptance: the evolution of attitudes towards depression.
Depression screening tool in acute settings .
The Bell Jar : analyzing Sylvia Plath’s iconic tale of depression .
The art of despair: examining Frida Kahlo’s self-portraits as a window into depression.
The Catcher in the Rye : Holden Caulfield’s battle with adolescent depression.
Music as therapy: how jazz artists turned depression into art.
Depression screening tool for a primary care center .
The Nordic paradox: high depression rates in Scandinavian countries despite high-quality healthcare.
The Stoic East: how Eastern philosophies approach and manage depression.
From solitude to solidarity: collective approaches to depression in collectivist cultures.
The portrayal of depression in popular culture: a critical analysis of movies and TV shows.
The depression screening training in primary care .
The impact of social media influencers on depression rates among young adults.
The role of music in coping with depression: can specific genres or songs help alleviate depressive symptoms?
The representation of depression in literature: a comparative analysis of classic and contemporary works.
The use of art as a form of self-expression and therapy for individuals with depression.
Depression management guidelines implementation .
The role of religion in coping with depression: Christian and Buddhist practices.
The representation of depression in the video game Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice .
The role of nature in coping with depression: can spending time outdoors help alleviate depressive symptoms?
The effectiveness of dance/movement therapy in treating depression among older adults.
The National Institute for Health: depression management .
The portrayal of depression in stand-up comedy: a study of comedians like Maria Bamford and Chris Gethard.
The role of spirituality in coping with depression: Islamic and Hindu practices .
The portrayal of depression in animated movies : an analysis of Inside Out and The Lion King .
The representation of depression by fashion designers like Alexander McQueen and Rick Owens.
Depression screening in primary care .
The portrayal of depression in documentaries: an analysis of films like The Bridge and Happy Valley .
The effectiveness of wilderness therapy in treating depression among adolescents.
The connection between creativity and depression: how art can help heal.
The role of Buddhist and Taoist practices in coping with depression.
Mild depression treatment research funding sources .
The portrayal of depression in podcasts: an analysis of the show The Hilarious World of Depression .
The effectiveness of drama therapy in treating depression among children and adolescents.
The representation of depression in the works of Vincent van Gogh and Edvard Munch.
Depression in young people: articles review .
The impact of social media on political polarization and its relationship with depression.
The role of humor in coping with depression: a study of comedians like Ellen DeGeneres.
The portrayal of depression in webcomics: an analysis of the comics Hyperbole and a Half .
The effect of social media on mental health stigma and its relationship with depression.
Depression and the impact of human services workers .
The masked faces: hiding depression in highly individualistic societies.

💭 Depression Speech Topics

Informative speech topics about depression.

Different types of depression and their symptoms.
The causes of depression: biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
How depression and physical issues are connected .
The prevalence of depression in different age groups and demographics.
The link between depression and anxiety disorders .
Physical health: The effects of untreated depression.
The role of genetics in predisposing individuals to depression.
What you need to know about depression .
How necessary is early intervention in treating depression?
The effectiveness of medication in treating depression.
The role of exercise in managing depressive symptoms.
Depression in later life: overview .
The relationship between substance abuse and depression.
The impact of trauma on depression rates and treatment.
The effectiveness of mindfulness meditation in managing depressive symptoms.
Enzymes conversion and metabolites in major depression .
The benefits and drawbacks of electroconvulsive therapy for severe depression.
The effect of gender and cultural norms on depression rates and treatment.
The effectiveness of alternative therapies for depression, such as acupuncture and herbal remedies .
The importance of self-care in managing depression.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and peritraumatic dissociation .
The role of support systems in managing depression.
The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating depression.
The benefits and drawbacks of online therapy for depression.
The role of spirituality in managing depression.
Depression among minority groups .
The benefits and drawbacks of residential treatment for severe depression.
What is the relationship between childhood trauma and adult depression?
How effective is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression?
The benefits and drawbacks of art therapy for depression.
Mood disorder: depression and bipolar .
The impact of social media on depression rates.
The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in treating depression.
Depression in older people .
The impact of seasonal changes on depression rates and treatment options.
The impact of depression on daily life and relationships, and strategies for coping with the condition.
The stigma around depression and the importance of seeking help.

Persuasive Speech Topics about Depression

How important is it to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression ?
How do you support a loved one who is struggling with depression?
The importance of mental health education in schools to prevent and manage depression.
Social media: the rise of depression and anxiety .
Is there a need to increase funding for mental health research to develop better treatments for depression?
Addressing depression in minority communities: overcoming barriers and disparities.
The benefits of including alternative therapies , such as yoga and meditation, in depression treatment plans.
Challenging media portrayals of depression: promoting accurate representations.
Two sides of depression disease .
How social media affects mental health: the need for responsible use to prevent depression.
The importance of early intervention: addressing depression in schools and colleges.
The benefits of seeking professional help for depression.
There is a need for better access to mental health care, including therapy and medication, for those suffering from depression.
Depression in adolescents and suitable interventions .
How do you manage depression while in college or university?
The role of family and friends in supporting loved ones with depression and encouraging them to seek help.
The benefits of mindfulness and meditation for depression.
The link between sleep and depression, and how to improve sleep habits.
How do you manage depression while working a high-stress job?
Approaches to treating depression .
How do you manage depression during pregnancy and postpartum?
The importance of prioritizing employee mental health and providing resources for managing depression in the workplace.
How should you manage depression while caring for a loved one with a chronic illness?
How to manage depression while dealing with infertility or pregnancy loss.
Andrew Solomon: why we can’t talk about depression .
Destigmatizing depression: promoting mental health awareness and understanding.
Raising funds for depression research: investing in mental health advances.
The power of peer support: establishing peer-led programs for depression.
Accessible mental health services: ensuring treatment for all affected by depression.
Evidence-based screening for depression in acute care .
The benefits of journaling for mental health: putting your thoughts on paper to heal.
The power of positivity: changing your mindset to fight depression .
The healing power of gratitude in fighting depression.
The connection between diet and depression: eating well can improve your mood.
Teen depression and suicide in Soto’s The Afterlife .
The benefits of therapy for depression: finding professional help to heal.
The importance of setting realistic expectations when living with depression.

📝 How to Write about Depression: Essay Structure

We’ve prepared some tips and examples to help you structure your essay and communicate your ideas.

Essay about Depression: Introduction

An introduction is the first paragraph of an essay. It plays a crucial role in engaging the reader, offering the context, and presenting the central theme.

A good introduction typically consists of 3 components:

Hook. The hook captures readers’ attention and encourages them to continue reading.
Background information. Background information provides context for the essay.
Thesis statement. A thesis statement expresses the essay’s primary idea or central argument.

Hook : Depression is a widespread mental illness affecting millions worldwide.

Background information : Depression affects your emotions, thoughts, and behavior. If you suffer from depression, engaging in everyday tasks might become arduous, and life may appear devoid of purpose or joy.

Depression Essay Thesis Statement

A good thesis statement serves as an essay’s road map. It expresses the author’s point of view on the issue in 1 or 2 sentences and presents the main argument.

Thesis statement : The stigma surrounding depression and other mental health conditions can discourage people from seeking help, only worsening their symptoms.

Essays on Depression: Body Paragraphs

The main body of the essay is where you present your arguments. An essay paragraph includes the following:

a topic sentence,
evidence to back up your claim,
explanation of why the point is essential to the argument;
a link to the next paragraph.

Topic sentence : Depression is a complex disorder that requires a personalized treatment approach, comprising both medication and therapy.

Evidence : Medication can be prescribed by a healthcare provider or a psychiatrist to relieve the symptoms. Additionally, practical strategies for managing depression encompass building a support system, setting achievable goals, and practicing self-care.

Depression Essay: Conclusion

The conclusion is the last part of your essay. It helps you leave a favorable impression on the reader.

The perfect conclusion includes 3 elements:

Rephrased thesis statement.
Summary of the main points.
Final opinion on the topic.

Rephrased thesis: In conclusion, overcoming depression is challenging because it involves a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors that affect an individual’s mental well-being.

Summary: Untreated depression heightens the risk of engaging in harmful behaviors such as substance abuse and can also result in negative thought patterns, diminished self-esteem, and distorted perceptions of reality.

We hope you’ve found our article helpful and learned some new information. If so, feel free to share it with your friends. You can also try our free online topic generator !

Pain, anxiety, and depression – Harvard Health | Harvard Health Publishing
Depression-related increases and decreases in appetite reveal dissociable patterns of aberrant activity in reward and interoceptive neurocircuitry – PMC | National Library of Medicine
How to Get Treatment for Postpartum Depression – The New York Times
What Is Background Information and What Purpose Does It Serve? | Indeed.com
Thesis | Harvard College Writing Center
Topic Sentences: How Do You Write a Great One? | Grammarly Blog

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What is depression?

Depression (also known as major depression, major depressive disorder, or clinical depression) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.

To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least 2 weeks.

There are different types of depression, some of which develop due to specific circumstances.

Major depression includes symptoms of depressed mood or loss of interest, most of the time for at least 2 weeks, that interfere with daily activities.
Persistent depressive disorder (also called dysthymia or dysthymic disorder) consists of less severe symptoms of depression that last much longer, usually for at least 2 years.
Perinatal depression is depression that occurs during pregnancy or after childbirth. Depression that begins during pregnancy is prenatal depression, and depression that begins after the baby is born is postpartum depression.
Seasonal affective disorder is depression that comes and goes with the seasons, with symptoms typically starting in the late fall or early winter and going away during the spring and summer.
Depression with symptoms of psychosis is a severe form of depression in which a person experiences psychosis symptoms, such as delusions (disturbing, false fixed beliefs) or hallucinations (hearing or seeing things others do not hear or see).

People with bipolar disorder (formerly called manic depression or manic-depressive illness) also experience depressive episodes, during which they feel sad, indifferent, or hopeless, combined with a very low activity level. But a person with bipolar disorder also experiences manic (or less severe hypomanic) episodes, or unusually elevated moods, in which they might feel very happy, irritable, or “up,” with a marked increase in activity level.

Other depressive disorders found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5-TR) include disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (diagnosed in children and adolescents) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (that affects women around the time of their period).

Who gets depression?

Depression can affect people of all ages, races, ethnicities, and genders.

Women are diagnosed with depression more often than men, but men can also be depressed. Because men may be less likely to recognize, talk about, and seek help for their feelings or emotional problems, they are at greater risk of their depression symptoms being undiagnosed or undertreated.

Studies also show higher rates of depression and an increased risk for the disorder among members of the LGBTQI+ community.

What are the signs and symptoms of depression?

If you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms, most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks, you may have depression:

Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
Fatigue, lack of energy, or feeling slowed down
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Difficulty sleeping, waking too early in the morning, or oversleeping
Changes in appetite or unplanned weight changes
Physical aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause that do not go away with treatment
Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts

Not everyone who is depressed experiences all these symptoms. Some people experience only a few symptoms, while others experience many. Symptoms associated with depression interfere with day-to-day functioning and cause significant distress for the person experiencing them.

Depression can also involve other changes in mood or behavior that include:

Increased anger or irritability
Feeling restless or on edge
Becoming withdrawn, negative, or detached
Increased engagement in high-risk activities
Greater impulsivity
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Isolating from family and friends
Inability to meet the responsibilities of work and family or ignoring other important roles
Problems with sexual desire and performance

Depression can look different in men and women. Although people of all genders can feel depressed, how they express those symptoms and the behaviors they use to cope with them may differ. For example, men (as well as women) may show symptoms other than sadness, instead seeming angry or irritable. And although increased use of alcohol or drugs can be a sign of depression in anyone, men are more likely to use these substances as a coping strategy.

In some cases, mental health symptoms appear as physical problems (for example, a racing heart, tightened chest, ongoing headaches, or digestive issues). Men are often more likely to see a health care provider about these physical symptoms than their emotional ones.

Because depression tends to make people think more negatively about themselves and the world, some people may also have thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

Several persistent symptoms, in addition to low mood, are required for a diagnosis of depression, but people with only a few symptoms may benefit from treatment. The severity and frequency of symptoms and how long they last will vary depending on the person, the illness, and the stage of the illness.

If you experience signs or symptoms of depression and they persist or do not go away, talk to a health care provider. If you see signs or symptoms of depression in someone you know, encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional.

If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org . In life-threatening situations, call 911 .

What are the risk factors for depression?

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States . Research suggests that genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors play a role in depression.

Risk factors for depression can include:

Personal or family history of depression
Major negative life changes, trauma, or stress

Depression can happen at any age, but it often begins in adulthood. Depression is now recognized as occurring in children and adolescents, although children may express more irritability or anxiety than sadness. Many chronic mood and anxiety disorders in adults begin as high levels of anxiety in childhood.

Depression, especially in midlife or older age, can co-occur with other serious medical illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, chronic pain, and Parkinson’s disease. These conditions are often worse when depression is present, and research suggests that people with depression and other medical illnesses tend to have more severe symptoms of both illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also recognized that having certain mental disorders, including depression and schizophrenia, can make people more likely to get severely ill from COVID-19.

Sometimes a physical health problem, such as thyroid disease, or medications taken for an illness cause side effects that contribute to depression. A health care provider experienced in treating these complicated illnesses can help determine the best treatment strategy.

How is depression treated?

Depression, even the most severe cases, can be treated. The earlier treatment begins, the more effective it is. Depression is usually treated with psychotherapy , medication , or a combination of the two.

Some people experience treatment-resistant depression, which occurs when a person does not get better after trying at least two antidepressant medications. If treatments like psychotherapy and medication do not reduce depressive symptoms or the need for rapid relief from symptoms is urgent, brain stimulation therapy may be an option to explore.

Quick tip : No two people are affected the same way by depression, and there is no "one-size-fits-all" treatment. Finding the treatment that works best for you may take trial and error.

Psychotherapies

Several types of psychotherapy (also called talk therapy or counseling) can help people with depression by teaching them new ways of thinking and behaving and helping them change habits that contribute to depression. Evidence-based approaches to treating depression include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). Learn more about psychotherapy .

The growth of telehealth for mental health services , which offers an alternative to in-person therapy, has made it easier and more convenient for people to access care in some cases. For people who may have been hesitant to look for mental health care in the past, virtual mental health care might be an easier option.

Medications

Antidepressants are medications commonly used to treat depression. They work by changing how the brain produces or uses certain chemicals involved in mood or stress. You may need to try several different antidepressants before finding the one that improves your symptoms and has manageable side effects. A medication that has helped you or a close family member in the past will often be considered first.

Antidepressants take time—usually 4–8 weeks—to work, and problems with sleep, appetite, and concentration often improve before mood lifts. It is important to give a medication a chance to work before deciding whether it’s right for you. Learn more about mental health medications .

New medications, such as intranasal esketamine , can have rapidly acting antidepressant effects, especially for people with treatment-resistant depression. Esketamine is a medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment-resistant depression. Delivered as a nasal spray in a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital, it acts rapidly, typically within a couple of hours, to relieve depression symptoms. People who use esketamine will usually continue taking an oral antidepressant to maintain the improvement in their symptoms.

Another option for treatment-resistant depression is to take an antidepressant alongside a different type of medication that may make it more effective, such as an antipsychotic or anticonvulsant medication. Further research is needed to identify the role of these newer medications in routine practice.

If you begin taking an antidepressant, do not stop taking it without talking to a health care provider . Sometimes people taking antidepressants feel better and stop taking the medications on their own, and their depression symptoms return. When you and a health care provider have decided it is time to stop a medication, usually after a course of 9–12 months, the provider will help you slowly and safely decrease your dose. Abruptly stopping a medication can cause withdrawal symptoms.

Note : In some cases, children, teenagers, and young adults under 25 years may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts or behavior when taking antidepressants, especially in the first few weeks after starting or when the dose is changed. The FDA advises that patients of all ages taking antidepressants be watched closely, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.

If you are considering taking an antidepressant and are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to a health care provider about any health risks to you or your unborn or nursing child and how to weigh those risks against the benefits of available treatment options.

To find the latest information about antidepressants, talk to a health care provider and visit the FDA website .

Brain stimulation therapies

If psychotherapy and medication do not reduce symptoms of depression, brain stimulation therapy may be an option to explore. There are now several types of brain stimulation therapy, some of which have been authorized by the FDA to treat depression. Other brain stimulation therapies are experimental and still being investigated for mental disorders like depression.

Although brain stimulation therapies are less frequently used than psychotherapy and medication, they can play an important role in treating mental disorders in people who do not respond to other treatments. These therapies are used for most mental disorders only after psychotherapy and medication have been tried and usually continue to be used alongside these treatments.

Brain stimulation therapies act by activating or inhibiting the brain with electricity. The electricity is given directly through electrodes implanted in the brain or indirectly through electrodes placed on the scalp. The electricity can also be induced by applying magnetic fields to the head.

The brain stimulation therapies with the largest bodies of evidence include:

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)
Magnetic seizure therapy (MST)
Deep brain stimulation (DBS)

ECT and rTMS are the most widely used brain stimulation therapies, with ECT having the longest history of use. The other therapies are newer and, in some cases, still considered experimental. Other brain stimulation therapies may also hold promise for treating specific mental disorders.

ECT, rTMS, and VNS have authorization from the FDA to treat severe, treatment-resistant depression. They can be effective for people who have not been able to feel better with other treatments; people for whom medications cannot be used safely; and in severe cases where a rapid response is needed, such as when a person is catatonic, suicidal, or malnourished.

Additional types of brain stimulation therapy are being investigated for treating depression and other mental disorders. Talk to a health care provider and make sure you understand the potential benefits and risks before undergoing brain stimulation therapy. Learn more about these brain stimulation therapies .

Natural products

The FDA has not approved any natural products for treating depression. Although research is ongoing and findings are inconsistent, some people use natural products, including vitamin D and the herbal dietary supplement St. John’s wort, for depression. However, these products can come with risks. For instance, dietary supplements and natural products can limit the effectiveness of some medications or interact in dangerous or even life-threatening ways with them.

Do not use vitamin D, St. John’s wort, or other dietary supplements or natural products without talking to a health care provider. Rigorous studies must be conducted to test whether these and other natural products are safe and effective.

Daily morning light therapy is a common treatment choice for people with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Light therapy devices are much brighter than ordinary indoor lighting and considered safe, except for people with certain eye diseases or taking medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight. As with all interventions for depression, evaluation, treatment, and follow-up by a health care provider are strongly recommended. Research into the potential role of light therapy in treating non-seasonal depression is ongoing.

How can I find help for depression?

A primary care provider is a good place to start if you’re looking for help. They can refer you to a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker, who can help you figure out next steps. Find tips for talking with a health care provider about your mental health.

You can learn more about getting help on the NIMH website. You can also learn about finding support and locating mental health services in your area on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website.

Once you enter treatment, you should gradually start to feel better. Here are some other things you can do outside of treatment that may help you or a loved one feel better:

Try to get physical activity. Just 30 minutes a day of walking can boost your mood.
Try to maintain a regular bedtime and wake-up time.
Eat regular, healthy meals.
Break up large tasks into small ones; do what you can as you can. Decide what must get done and what can wait.
Try to connect with people. Talk with people you trust about how you are feeling.
Delay making important decisions, such as getting married or divorced, or changing jobs until you feel better. Discuss decisions with people who know you well.
Avoid using alcohol, nicotine, or drugs, including medications not prescribed for you.

How can I find a clinical trial for depression?

Clinical trials are research studies that look at new ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions, including depression. The goal of a clinical trial is to determine if a new test or treatment works and is safe. Although people may benefit from being part of a clinical trial, they should know that the primary purpose is to gain new scientific knowledge so that others can be better helped in the future.

Researchers at NIMH and around the country conduct many studies with people with and without depression. We have new and better treatment options today because of what clinical trials have uncovered. Talk to a health care provider about clinical trials, their benefits and risks, and whether one is right for you.

To learn more or find a study, visit:

Clinical Trials – Information for Participants : Information about clinical trials, why people might take part in a clinical trial, and what people might experience during a clinical trial
Clinicaltrials.gov: Current Studies on Depression : List of clinical trials funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) being conducted across the country
Join a Study: Depression—Adults : List of studies currently recruiting adults with depression being conducted on the NIH campus in Bethesda, MD
Join a Study: Depression—Children : List of studies currently recruiting children with depression being conducted on the NIH campus in Bethesda, MD
Join a Study: Perimenopause-Related Mood Disorders : List of studies on perimenopause-related mood disorders being conducted on the NIH campus in Bethesda, MD
Join a Study: Postpartum Depression : List of studies on postpartum depression being conducted on the NIH campus in Bethesda, MD

Where can I learn more about depression?

Free brochures and shareable resources.

Chronic Illness and Mental Health: Recognizing and Treating Depression : This brochure provides information about depression for people living with chronic illnesses, including children and adolescents. It discusses signs and symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options.
Depression : This brochure provides information about depression, including different types of depression, signs and symptoms, how it is diagnosed, treatment options, and how to find help for yourself or a loved one.
Depression in Women: 4 Things to Know : This fact sheet provides information about depression in women, including signs and symptoms, types of depression unique to women, and how to get help.
Perinatal Depression : This brochure provides information about perinatal depression, including how it differs from “baby blues,” causes, signs and symptoms, treatment options, and how to find help for yourself or a loved one.
Seasonal Affective Disorder : This fact sheet provides information about seasonal affective disorder, including signs and symptoms, how it is diagnosed, causes, and treatment options.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): More Than the Winter Blues : This infographic provides information about how to recognize the symptoms of SAD and what to do to get help.
Teen Depression: More Than Just Moodiness : This fact sheet is for teens and young adults and provides information about how to recognize the symptoms of depression and what to do to get help.
Digital Shareables on Depression : These digital resources, including graphics and messages, can be used to spread the word about depression and help promote depression awareness and education in your community.

Federal resources

Depression (MedlinePlus - also en español )
Moms’ Mental Health Matters: Depression and Anxiety Around Pregnancy ( Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development)

Research and statistics

Journal Articles : This webpage provides articles and abstracts on depression from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine).
Statistics: Major Depression : This webpage provides the statistics currently available on the prevalence and treatment of depression among people in the United States.
Depression Mental Health Minute : Take a mental health minute to watch this video on depression.
NIMH Experts Discuss the Menopause Transition and Depression : Learn about the signs and symptoms, treatments, and latest research on depression during menopause.
NIMH Expert Discusses Seasonal Affective Disorder : Learn about the signs and symptoms, treatments, and latest research on seasonal affective disorder.
Discover NIMH: Personalized and Targeted Brain Stimulation Therapies : Watch this video describing repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and electroconvulsive therapy for treatment-resistant depression. Brain stimulation therapies can be effective treatments for people with depression and other mental disorders. NIMH supports studies exploring how to make brain stimulation therapies more personalized while reducing side effects.
Discover NIMH: Drug Discovery and Development : One of the most exciting breakthroughs from research funded by NIMH is the development of a fast-acting medication for treatment-resistant depression based on ketamine. This video shares the story of how ketamine infusions meaningfully changed the life of a participant in an NIMH clinical trial.
Mental Health Matters Podcast: Depression: The Case for Ketamine : Dr. Carlos Zarate Jr. discusses esketamine—the medication he helped discover—for treatment-resistant depression. The podcast covers the history behind the development of esketamine, how it can help with depression, and what the future holds for this innovative line of clinical research.

Last Reviewed: March 2024

Unless otherwise specified, the information on our website and in our publications is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy images. Please cite the National Institute of Mental Health as the source. Read our copyright policy to learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content.

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Diseases & Conditions
Depression (major depressive disorder)
What is depression? A Mayo Clinic expert explains.

Learn more about depression from Craig Sawchuk, Ph.D., L.P., clinical psychologist at Mayo Clinic.

Hi, I'm Dr. Craig Sawchuk, a clinical psychologist at Mayo Clinic. And I'm here to talk with you about depression. Whether you're looking for answers for yourself, a friend, or loved one, understanding the basics of depression can help you take the next step.

Depression is a mood disorder that causes feelings of sadness that won't go away. Unfortunately, there's a lot of stigma around depression. Depression isn't a weakness or a character flaw. It's not about being in a bad mood, and people who experience depression can't just snap out of it. Depression is a common, serious, and treatable condition. If you're experiencing depression, you're not alone. It honestly affects people of all ages and races and biological sexes, income levels and educational backgrounds. Approximately one in six people will experience a major depressive episode at some point in their lifetime, while up to 16 million adults each year suffer from clinical depression. There are many types of symptoms that make up depression. Emotionally, you may feel sad or down or irritable or even apathetic. Physically, the body really slows down. You feel tired. Your sleep is often disrupted. It's really hard to get yourself motivated. Your thinking also changes. It can just be hard to concentrate. Your thoughts tend to be much more negative. You can be really hard on yourself, feel hopeless and helpless about things. And even in some cases, have thoughts of not wanting to live. Behaviorally, you just want to pull back and withdraw from others, activities, and day-to-day responsibilities. These symptoms all work together to keep you trapped in a cycle of depression. Symptoms of depression are different for everyone. Some symptoms may be a sign of another disorder or medical condition. That's why it's important to get an accurate diagnosis.

While there's no single cause of depression, most experts believe there's a combination of biological, social, and psychological factors that contribute to depression risk. Biologically, we think about genetics or a family history of depression, health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or thyroid disorders, and even hormonal changes that happen over the lifespan, such as pregnancy and menopause. Changes in brain chemistry, especially disruptions in neurotransmitters like serotonin, that play an important role in regulating many bodily functions, including mood, sleep, and appetite, are thought to play a particularly important role in depression. Socially stressful and traumatic life events, limited access to resources such as food, housing, and health care, and a lack of social support all contribute to depression risk. Psychologically, we think of how negative thoughts and problematic coping behaviors, such as avoidance and substance use, increase our vulnerability to depression.

The good news is that treatment helps. Effective treatments for depression exist and you do have options to see what works best for you. Lifestyle changes that improve sleep habits, exercise, and address underlying health conditions can be an important first step. Medications such as antidepressants can be helpful in alleviating depressive symptoms. Therapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches skills to better manage negative thoughts and improve coping behaviors to help break you out of cycles of depression. Whatever the cause, remember that depression is not your fault and it can be treated.

To help diagnose depression, your health care provider may use a physical exam, lab tests, or a mental health evaluation. These results will help identify various treatment options that best fit your situation.

Help is available. You don't have to deal with depression by yourself. Take the next step and reach out. If you're hesitant to talk to a health care provider, talk to a friend or loved one about how to get help. Living with depression isn't easy and you're not alone in your struggles. Always remember that effective treatments and supports are available to help you start feeling better. Want to learn more about depression? Visit mayoclinic.org. Do take care.

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes you may feel as if life isn't worth living.

More than just a bout of the blues, depression isn't a weakness and you can't simply "snap out" of it. Depression may require long-term treatment. But don't get discouraged. Most people with depression feel better with medication, psychotherapy or both.

Depression care at Mayo Clinic

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Although depression may occur only once during your life, people typically have multiple episodes. During these episodes, symptoms occur most of the day, nearly every day and may include:

Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness
Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters
Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports
Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort
Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame
Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches

For many people with depression, symptoms usually are severe enough to cause noticeable problems in day-to-day activities, such as work, school, social activities or relationships with others. Some people may feel generally miserable or unhappy without really knowing why.

Depression symptoms in children and teens

Common signs and symptoms of depression in children and teenagers are similar to those of adults, but there can be some differences.

In younger children, symptoms of depression may include sadness, irritability, clinginess, worry, aches and pains, refusing to go to school, or being underweight.
In teens, symptoms may include sadness, irritability, feeling negative and worthless, anger, poor performance or poor attendance at school, feeling misunderstood and extremely sensitive, using recreational drugs or alcohol, eating or sleeping too much, self-harm, loss of interest in normal activities, and avoidance of social interaction.

Depression symptoms in older adults

Depression is not a normal part of growing older, and it should never be taken lightly. Unfortunately, depression often goes undiagnosed and untreated in older adults, and they may feel reluctant to seek help. Symptoms of depression may be different or less obvious in older adults, such as:

Memory difficulties or personality changes
Physical aches or pain
Fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems or loss of interest in sex — not caused by a medical condition or medication
Often wanting to stay at home, rather than going out to socialize or doing new things
Suicidal thinking or feelings, especially in older men

When to see a doctor

If you feel depressed, make an appointment to see your doctor or mental health professional as soon as you can. If you're reluctant to seek treatment, talk to a friend or loved one, any health care professional, a faith leader, or someone else you trust.

When to get emergency help

If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, call 911 in the U.S. or your local emergency number immediately.

Also consider these options if you're having suicidal thoughts:

Call your doctor or mental health professional.
Contact a suicide hotline.
In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat . Services are free and confidential.
U.S. veterans or service members who are in crisis can call 988 and then press “1” for the Veterans Crisis Line . Or text 838255. Or chat online .
The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. has a Spanish language phone line at 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free).
Reach out to a close friend or loved one.
Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone else in your faith community.

If you have a loved one who is in danger of suicide or has made a suicide attempt, make sure someone stays with that person. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Or, if you think you can do so safely, take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room.

More Information

Depression (major depressive disorder) care at Mayo Clinic

Male depression: Understanding the issues
Nervous breakdown: What does it mean?
Pain and depression: Is there a link?

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It's not known exactly what causes depression. As with many mental disorders, a variety of factors may be involved, such as:

Biological differences. People with depression appear to have physical changes in their brains. The significance of these changes is still uncertain, but may eventually help pinpoint causes.
Brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring brain chemicals that likely play a role in depression. Recent research indicates that changes in the function and effect of these neurotransmitters and how they interact with neurocircuits involved in maintaining mood stability may play a significant role in depression and its treatment.
Hormones. Changes in the body's balance of hormones may be involved in causing or triggering depression. Hormone changes can result with pregnancy and during the weeks or months after delivery (postpartum) and from thyroid problems, menopause or a number of other conditions.
Inherited traits. Depression is more common in people whose blood relatives also have this condition. Researchers are trying to find genes that may be involved in causing depression.
Marijuana and depression
Vitamin B-12 and depression

Risk factors

Depression often begins in the teens, 20s or 30s, but it can happen at any age. More women than men are diagnosed with depression, but this may be due in part because women are more likely to seek treatment.

Factors that seem to increase the risk of developing or triggering depression include:

Certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem and being too dependent, self-critical or pessimistic
Traumatic or stressful events, such as physical or sexual abuse, the death or loss of a loved one, a difficult relationship, or financial problems
Blood relatives with a history of depression, bipolar disorder, alcoholism or suicide
Being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, or having variations in the development of genital organs that aren't clearly male or female (intersex) in an unsupportive situation
History of other mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorder, eating disorders or post-traumatic stress disorder
Abuse of alcohol or recreational drugs
Serious or chronic illness, including cancer, stroke, chronic pain or heart disease
Certain medications, such as some high blood pressure medications or sleeping pills (talk to your doctor before stopping any medication)

Complications

Depression is a serious disorder that can take a terrible toll on you and your family. Depression often gets worse if it isn't treated, resulting in emotional, behavioral and health problems that affect every area of your life.

Examples of complications associated with depression include:

Excess weight or obesity, which can lead to heart disease and diabetes
Pain or physical illness
Alcohol or drug misuse
Anxiety, panic disorder or social phobia
Family conflicts, relationship difficulties, and work or school problems
Social isolation
Suicidal feelings, suicide attempts or suicide
Self-mutilation, such as cutting
Premature death from medical conditions
Depression and anxiety: Can I have both?

There's no sure way to prevent depression. However, these strategies may help.

Take steps to control stress, to increase your resilience and boost your self-esteem.
Reach out to family and friends, especially in times of crisis, to help you weather rough spells.
Get treatment at the earliest sign of a problem to help prevent depression from worsening.
Consider getting long-term maintenance treatment to help prevent a relapse of symptoms.
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Depressive disorders. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-5. 5th ed. Arlington, Va.: American Psychiatric Association; 2013. http://www.psychiatryonline.org. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Depression. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Depression. National Alliance on Mental Illness. http://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-Conditions/Depression/Overview. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Depression: What you need to know. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-what-you-need-to-know/index.shtml. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
What is depression? American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Depression. NIH Senior Health. https://nihseniorhealth.gov/depression/aboutdepression/01.html. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Children’s mental health: Anxiety and depression. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/depression.html#depression. Accessed. Jan. 23, 2017.
Depression and complementary health approaches: What the science says. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://nccih.nih.gov/health/providers/digest/depression-science. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Depression. Natural Medicines. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/medical-conditions/d/depression.aspx. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Natural medicines in the clinical management of depression. Natural Medicines. http://naturaldatabase.therapeuticresearch.com/ce/CECourse.aspx?cs=naturalstandard&s=ND&pm=5&pc=15-111. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
The road to resilience. American Psychological Association. http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/road-resilience.aspx. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Simon G, et al. Unipolar depression in adults: Choosing initial treatment. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Stewart D, et al. Risks of antidepressants during pregnancy: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Kimmel MC, et al. Safety of infant exposure to antidepressants and benzodiazepines through breastfeeding. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Bipolar and related disorders. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-5. 5th ed. Arlington, Va.: American Psychiatric Association; 2013. http://www.psychiatryonline.org. Accessed Jan. 23, 2017.
Hirsch M, et al. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) for treating depressed adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Jan. 24, 2017.
Hall-Flavin DK (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jan. 31, 2017.
Krieger CA (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Feb. 2, 2017.
Antidepressant withdrawal: Is there such a thing?
Antidepressants and alcohol: What's the concern?
Antidepressants and weight gain: What causes it?
Antidepressants: Can they stop working?
Antidepressants: Selecting one that's right for you
Antidepressants: Side effects
Antidepressants: Which cause the fewest sexual side effects?
Atypical antidepressants
Clinical depression: What does that mean?
Depression in women: Understanding the gender gap
Depression, anxiety and exercise
Depression: Supporting a family member or friend
MAOIs and diet: Is it necessary to restrict tyramine?
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
Natural remedies for depression: Are they effective?
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
Treatment-resistant depression
Tricyclic antidepressants and tetracyclic antidepressants

Associated Procedures

Complete blood count (CBC)
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
Psychotherapy
Transcranial magnetic stimulation
Vagus nerve stimulation

News from Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic Q and A: How to support a loved one with depression Oct. 23, 2022, 11:00 a.m. CDT
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Science Saturday: Researchers validate threshold for determining effectiveness of antidepressant treatment Aug. 27, 2022, 11:00 a.m. CDT
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Home / Essay Samples / Health / Depression / Exploring the Depths of Depression: An Argumentative View

Exploring the Depths of Depression: An Argumentative View

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