Depression

A mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life.

Causes

Possible causes include a combination of biological, psychological, and social sources of distress. Increasingly, research suggests these factors may cause changes in brain function, including altered activity of certain neural circuits in the brain.

Symptoms

The persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest that characterizes major depression can lead to a range of behavioral and physical symptoms. These may include changes in sleep, appetite, energy level, concentration, daily behavior, or self-esteem. Depression can also be associated with thoughts of suicide.

Affected Groups

Literally anyone

Cultural Reception

Certain cultural groups, for example the church of the light have a negative stigma surrounding mental illness. Some believe it is divine punishment or pass it off as a trial to be overcome from the creator. More and more in present day this belief is becoming outdated and more and more worshipers are abandoning this barbaric view. That doesn't mean however that people who think that way aren't still rather commonplace.

Type

Mental

Cycle

Chronic, Acquired & Congenital

Rarity

Common