Depressive disorders are a group of conditions where persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest interfere with daily life.
They include:
Major depressive disorder,
Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia),
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), among others.
Causes involve genetics, brain chemistry, and life stressors. Treatments combine therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Depression is not just “feeling down”—it is a medical condition that requires care and support.