Depression is a condition that negatively impacts mood, feelings, thoughts, and actions (Lee, Jeong, & Kim, 2021; Mofatteh, 2020). Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Depression drains your energy, hope, and drive, making it difficult to take the steps that will help you to feel better. Someone with depression may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes may feel as if life isn't worth living. (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2022). 

Depression can be induced by physical, psychological, social and environmental factors etc. Some examples include illness, lack of sleep, physical inactivity, failed relationships, seasonal changes, poor eating habits, lack of exercise, financial worry, failed relationships,  medication, drug or alcohol use,  genetics, living conditions, life events and low self-esteem

Although depression may occur only once in your life, it is not uncommon to experience multiple episodes (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2022). During these episodes, symptoms occur most of the day and nearly every day. Symptoms may include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, angry outbursts, irritability, loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, changes in appetite, irregular sleep patterns, anxiety, agitation, trouble thinking, or restlessness. Please note this list is not exhaustive, additional symptoms may occur.

Depression can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems including excess weight/obesity, pain or physical illness, alcohol or drug misuse, anxiety, relationship difficulties, work/school problems, social isolation, suicidal feelings and self-harm (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2022).

Nearly 10% of Americans experience depression. With approximately 28% of the US population and 40% of college students reported having symptoms of depression (National Institutes of Mental Health, 2022).