Depression is an illness that can make you feel sad and hopeless over a period of time. It is different from the occasional feelings of sadness, grief, low energy that many of us have from time to time. Depression is a common but serious illness that can interfere with your daily routines, such as
your relationships with your family and friends, caring for your children, participating in school or work, or taking care of household tasks.

Who Gets Depression?
Although depression is most likely to start when a person is in their mid-twenties, the condition can affect men and women of all ages, including children and teenagers. Depression is more common in women than in men, in people who have a serious illness such as diabetes, and in people who are separated or divorced.

Depression can be different in different people or in the same person over time. Even if you have severe depression, treatment can help you get better.