What Is Depression?

Starting Therapy

Sep 22

Written By Ryan Greenwood

Written by Ryan Greenwood

Understanding Depression: How It Affects Thoughts, Feelings, and Daily Life

More common than you think, and yes, it’s treatable.

Depression is far more than just feeling sad or down—it’s a persistent condition that can significantly impact the way a person thinks, feels, and functions in daily life. From disrupted sleep and changes in appetite to overwhelming feelings of hopelessness, depression can affect every aspect of a person’s well-being.

Depression Affects Millions, and It Might Be Closer Than You Think

Statistically, about 5% of the global adult population lives with depression, and in the U.S. alone, 8.4% of adults have experienced at least one major depressive episode in a given year. That translates to millions of people around the world, meaning the chances are high that someone you know is affected—even if they don’t fit the stereotypical portrayal of depression in movies or TV shows.

Depression doesn’t discriminate. It affects people of all backgrounds, regardless of wealth, upbringing, or personal happiness. Much like catching a cold, depression can strike anyone—rich or poor, outgoing or introverted, successful or struggling. So, while some people may seem to have "perfect lives" on the outside, they could still be battling depression internally.

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Depression and Anxiety: The Vicious Cycle

Another critical aspect of depression is how it intertwines with other mental health conditions, particularly anxiety. Often, depression and anxiety co-occur, feeding off each other in a cyclical pattern. For example, someone with anxiety might become depressed due to the constant stress and fear they experience, while a person with depression may develop anxiety from worrying about their inability to function normally.

This complex relationship can make both conditions harder to manage, as treating one doesn’t always resolve the other. This is why it's important to recognize the signs of both and address them with comprehensive care.

Proven Treatments: Therapy and Medication

Fortunately, depression is treatable, and research shows that both therapy and medication can be highly effective. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other psychotherapeutic methods have been shown to reduce depressive symptoms by helping people manage negative thoughts and behaviors. Similarly, antidepressant medications are often used to balance brain chemistry and improve mood.

For many individuals, a combination of therapy and medication offers the best chance of recovery. In fact, studies suggest that while therapy can be as effective as medication in the short term, it may have longer-lasting benefits for managing depression.

Wrapping It Up

Anxiety is not your enemy—it’s your body’s way of keeping you safe, even if it sometimes gets it wrong. By recognizing that the dangers it alerts you to aren’t always physical, listening to what it’s trying to tell you, and deciding whether to act on it or let it go, you can start to manage your anxiety rather than letting it manage you.

If you’re finding that anxiety is becoming a regular, uninvited guest in your life, it might be time to talk to someone who can help. Schedule an appointment with us at Hello Therapy to explore more strategies for managing anxiety and reclaiming your peace of mind. Contact Us today!

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone, and Help Is Available

Depression is common, but it’s also treatable. If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms of depression, don’t hesitate to seek help. At Hello Therapy, we provide compassionate, professional support tailored to your needs. Schedule an appointment today to explore the many options available for managing and treating depression.