Clinical depression—also known as major depressive disorder or simply “depression”—is far more significant than merely feeling “down” or “blue,” which every human experiences from time to time. At Lake Behavioral Hospital in Waukegan, IL, our behavioral and mental health specialists work with hundreds of community members living with this condition. Through compassionate and best-practice care, we help our patients learn how to optimize their lives and re-discover enjoyment, productivity, and a sense of well-being in their day-to-day lives.

What is Clinical Depression?

Clinical depression is much more common than people may realize—it’s actually the leading cause of disability in Americans between the ages of 14 and 44.3. Nearly 7% of the US population will be affected by it during any given year.

At its core, depression is a brain condition which can negatively impact the way you think, feel, and act. There are several different types of depression, many of which manifest at specific times (e.g., seasonally or postpartum) or at specific ages (e.g., teen depression). A mental health specialist can help a person understand which type they have in order to guide treatment.

Depression Signs and Symptoms

Depression comes with a range of commonly experienced signs and symptoms, although individuals living with this condition will not all present in the exact same way. Typical signs and symptoms include:

• A pervasive and persistent feeling of emptiness, hopelessness, despair, or sadness
• Frequent feelings of worthlessness, guilt, helplessness
• Irritability, restlessness (“fidgety-ness”), and anxiousness
• A decreased interest in activities
• Decreased energy
• Fatigue
• Sleep and appetite disruptions (e.g., waking up and not being able to fall back asleep; eating or sleeping too much or too little)
• Slow speech and/or movement
• Problems with memory, decision-making, and attention
• Weight loss or gain
• Suicidal ideation, frequent thoughts of death, or suicide attempts
• Physical symptoms (e.g., back pain or digestive issues) with no clear physical cause

Family history, life experience, and certain medications and/or illnesses may increase a person’s risk of developing depression.

Depression Treatment

A person with the above signs and symptoms for at least two weeks can be diagnosed with clinical depression, provided that other causes have been ruled out via a thorough physical, psychological, and personal/family history examination. Depression treatment depends on the specific needs, goals, and characteristics of the individual.

Are You or Someone You Know Affected by Teen or Adult Depression?

If you or someone you love is living with clinical depression or simply have concerns about mental health, contact Lake Behavioral Hospital at (855)990-1900 for a free assessment. We’re here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and are ready to help you thrive!

The above article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a guide for making medical decisions. Please review this information and discuss it with your doctor or health care provider. For a free assessment of potential mental health conditions at our hospital 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, please contact Lake Behavioral Hospital at, toll-free (855) 990-1900.