Depression is a serious mental illness that can cause long-lasting and severe feelings of sadness and hopelessness, as well as a loss of interest in activities. It can affect a person’s quality of life and relationships.
Some people with depression may experience appetite changes and sleep problems. Other aspects of depression may bring on painful physical symptoms, such as headaches.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that, in 2020,
Symptoms and causes of depression can vary widely from person to person. Gender may also play an important role in why depression affects a person and what it feels like to them.
