Short answer
A helpful way to think about it
Depression is more than feeling sad; persistent low mood or loss of interest and pleasure may be accompanied by changes in energy, sleep, appetite, thinking and functioning. Not every low mood means depression; duration and impact on daily life matter in professional assessment.
What is depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that can vary in severity and presentation. It is not identified by one symptom alone; physical health, life circumstances and medication are also considered.
How might it feel and what may accompany it?
Loss of interest or pleasure, reduced energy, changes in sleep and appetite, hopelessness, feelings of worthlessness, concentration difficulties or slowing may occur. Some people experience numbness or irritability more than sadness.
How can daily life be affected?
Self-care, relationships, work or study, decision-making and starting even simple tasks may become difficult. Outward functioning does not always reflect a person’s inner burden.
What may help?
Talking with someone trusted, maintaining basic needs in small steps and seeking psychological or medical assessment may help. Support is planned according to severity, duration, preference and health context.
A sign to consider support
When might support be worth considering?
Professional assessment is important if low mood or loss of interest lasts two weeks or longer, clearly affects daily life or hopelessness increases. Seek urgent help if there are thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
Is every sadness depression?
No. Assessment considers the combination, duration, severity and impact of symptoms.
Is depression only psychological?
No. Physical health, hormones, medication and life circumstances can affect symptoms; medical assessment may be important.
When is urgent help needed?
Contact local emergency services without delay if there are thoughts or plans of self-harm or suicide, or an immediate safety risk.
Sources and further reading
This content is provided for general information. Sources accessed: 8 August 2026.
- NICE NG222 — Depression in adultsOfficial or academic information and an assessment framework relevant to the topic.
- NICE CKS — Depression clinical knowledge summaryOfficial or academic information and an assessment framework relevant to the topic.
- Türkiye 112 Emergency Call CentreThe official emergency call service for immediate risk or threats to safety.