How Long Can Depression Last?

Do you experience overwhelming sadness or hopelessness? Have you been struggling to sleep, build motivation, or focus? Do you have low energy or feel guilty?

Depression is something that over 16 million American adults deal with each year. Understanding the roots of depression is essential for reducing the stigma and helping the people you care about.

How long can depression last? It differs depending on the person and their situation. To know the answer, look at some common types of depression.

How Long Can Depression Last

Depression is a mental disorder that can affect a person’s mood, thoughts, and physical health. It is a common but serious problem that can last for weeks, months, or even years depending on the type.

There are four main types of depression: major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder.

1. Major Depressive Disorder

Major depressive disorder is the common name for the clinical diagnosis of depression. It is characterized by depressed mood, low energy, changes in appetite, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest in usual activities. It may also include feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and excessive guilt.

Major depressive disorder is different from the normal sadness that people feel when a loved one dies or when they experience other significant life stressors. The disorder interferes with daily functioning and can cause a person to suffer great emotional distress.

Major depressive disorder is the most common form of depression, and it can last anywhere from a few weeks to many years.

2. Persistent Depressive Disorder

Persistent depressive disorder is characterized by episodes of major depression that are interspersed with periods of less severe symptoms. It can interfere with a person’s ability to work, sleep, eat, and enjoy life.

Persistent depressive disorder is characterized by a long-term, low-grade depressive episode. It can last for two years or more.

3. Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that is characterized by severe mood swings. These mood swings can be from feeling very happy to feeling very depressed. It can also be accompanied by other depression symptoms such as changes in sleep, energy, and appetite.

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that can be difficult to treat and it can last a lifetime if not properly treated. To check out treatment options, click the following page.

4. Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that happens during the winter months when there is less sunlight. People with SAD may feel sad, hopeless, and irritable. They may also have trouble sleeping, and may not want to eat or do anything.

SAD is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. SAD typically begins in the fall and lasts through the winter months. 

If you have SAD, you may be able to help yourself by getting more sunlight, exercising, and using a light therapy box.

Beat That Depression Now!

How long can depression last depends on the ways to treat it. If you or someone you know is suffering from depression signs, please seek help from a mental health professional.

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