Depression is a mental illness which is characterised by low mood and an inability to undertake activities. People who have depression have low mood and this can have a negative impact on their thinking, feeling, behaviour and sense of wellbeing. Some of the symptoms of depression include immense sadness, inactivity, inability to focus and think effectively, a significant decrease or increase in appetite and spending an inordinate amount of time sleeping. Some people may also have feelings of dejection, hopelessness and sometimes suicidal ideations. Some physical or mental conditions, personality traits (ie neuroticism) as well as prescribed drugs can cause depression. Although most people will experience a depressed mood during the course of their lives due to some difficult life events chronic and acute depression requires treatment.
Treatments can include psychotherapy, stress management and medication.