What is depression?
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a medical condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, lasting at least two weeks and often much longer without treatment. It’s one of the most common and most treatable mental health conditions, though it’s still frequently under-recognized.
What are the symptoms of depression?
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in sleep (too much or too little) and appetite
- Fatigue or low energy most days
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Thoughts of death or self-harm
Symptoms vary in intensity and combination — not everyone experiences all of them, and severity can range from mild to severe.
What causes depression?
- A combination of biological factors (brain chemistry, genetics) and life circumstances (stress, loss, trauma).
- Other medical conditions, certain medications, and hormonal changes can contribute.
- Family history increases risk, though depression can affect anyone regardless of life circumstances.
How is depression diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on a clinical evaluation — a conversation about symptoms, their duration, and their impact on daily life — sometimes supported by standardized questionnaires. Your doctor may also check for underlying medical causes (thyroid issues, vitamin deficiencies) that can produce similar symptoms.
What is the treatment for depression?
- Psychotherapy (talk therapy), which helps identify patterns and build coping strategies — effective on its own for mild to moderate depression.
- Medication (antidepressants), often combined with therapy for moderate to severe depression; finding the right medication can take some adjustment.
- Lifestyle factors — sleep, physical activity, and social connection — support recovery alongside treatment, though they aren’t a substitute for it in moderate-to-severe cases.
- Regular follow-up to adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Everything under one roof
Psychiatry and psychology consultations are available at Hospital CMQ, with confidential, judgment-free care from the first visit.
Not feeling like yourself for a while now? Message us on WhatsApp to schedule a confidential consultation.
When is depression a medical emergency?
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, this is a medical emergency — go to the nearest emergency room, call emergency services, or contact a crisis line immediately. In Mexico, SAPTEL (55 5259-8121) offers 24/7 crisis support, and Línea de la Vida (800-911-2000) is also available nationally; in the U.S. and Canada, 988 connects to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You don’t have to wait for a scheduled appointment to get help.
How is depression managed day to day, alongside treatment?
- Keep a consistent sleep schedule, since sleep and mood strongly affect each other.
- Stay connected with people you trust, even when withdrawing feels easier.
- Move your body regularly — even short walks measurably help mood for many people.
- Attend follow-up appointments consistently, even once you start feeling better, since depression can return without ongoing care.
Reviewed by: Dra. Itzel Aguayo, General Medicine, and Dr. David Hernández, Internal Medicine, Hospital CMQ. Review date: July 2026. References: World Health Organization (WHO), National Institute of Mental Health (NIH), American Psychiatric Association.