depression:
More than just a bout of the blues, depression isn't a weakness and you can't simply "snap out" of it. Depression is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in daily activities, resulting in a range of impairments. In the United States, an estimated 17.3 (7.1%) million adults had at least one major depressive episode in 2017. Adult females, individuals age 18-25, and those reporting two or races experienced the highest prevalence of depression.
To diagnose clinical depression, an individual must experience, for at least two weeks, a depressed mood or loss of interest/pleasure, and have the majority of specified symptoms such as problems with sleep, eating, energy, concentration, or self-worth.
Depression may require long-term treatment. But don't get discouraged! Most people with depression feel better with medication, psychotherapy or both. Anxiety and depression often go hand-in-hand, and mental health treatment can be tailored to address both.