Guide
What depression can look like
Depression is more than feeling sad for a few days. It can show up as low mood, numbness, loss of interest, irritability, fatigue, or feeling overwhelmed by normal daily tasks.
Some people keep functioning on the outside while struggling internally. Others notice work, relationships, sleep, appetite, or self-care becoming harder to manage.
- Persistent low mood, hopelessness, or emotional numbness
- Changes in sleep, appetite, energy, or concentration
- Loss of interest in activities that usually matter
- Difficulty functioning at home, work, or in relationships
When it may be time to seek support
It may help to reach out when symptoms are lasting, worsening, or making daily life harder to manage. You do not need to wait for a crisis to ask for help.
If someone is at immediate risk of harm, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. A condition page is not a crisis service.
- Symptoms are interfering with daily responsibilities
- Weekly therapy alone is not enough support right now
- There has been a recent crisis, hospitalization, or major decline
- You are unsure what level of care is appropriate
How treatment programs can help
The right program depends on symptom severity, stability, and how much structure is needed. Some adults need a higher level of support for a period of time, while others may do well in outpatient care.
Our care team can help you sort out what level of care fits now and what next steps make sense.
- Structured daytime support may help when functioning has significantly declined
- Outpatient mental health care may be a fit for stable ongoing support when available
- Treatment can include therapy, psychiatry, and care coordination