A group of people comfort their friend as they wonder if depression is different than sadness

How is Depression Different from Sadness?

It’s common for people to say they’re depressed when they’re sad. Also, when most people think of depression, sadness is the first thing that comes to mind. We sometimes use these words interchangeably, but sadness and depression are not the same thing. Depression continues to be a misunderstood condition and it’s one that affects about… Continue Reading How is Depression Different from Sadness?

A woman researches whether there is a link between social media and depression on her smart phone

Is There a Link Between Social Media and Depression?

Anyone who has spent too much time on social media knows what it’s like to come away feeling anxious, irritable, despondent, or angry. Interacting with friends, acquaintances, and strangers online can provoke emotions ranging from envy to outrage. Many people often lament that social media platforms have replaced meaningful social interaction with superficial sharing, which… Continue Reading Is There a Link Between Social Media and Depression?

a young man mediates and thinks about the physical effects of depression

What are the Physical Effects of Depression?

Depression is the number one cause of disability worldwide. About 16 million American adults suffer a depressive episode every year. Common symptoms of depression include sadness, irritability, sleep disturbances, fatigue, lack of motivation, feelings of hopelessness, and thoughts of suicide. Depression obviously has a negative impact on your quality of life, so much so that… Continue Reading What are the Physical Effects of Depression?

a man thinks about the link between arthritis and depression

The Link Between Arthritis and Depression

One major risk factor for depression is chronic illness, especially illnesses that involve pain. Studies have found that depression is common among people who suffer from arthritis, both rheumatoid arthritis and age-related osteoarthritis. The connection between these conditions is not yet clear, and is likely complex. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects people… Continue Reading The Link Between Arthritis and Depression

a man talks to a group about how to make better decisions even if youre depressed

How to Make Better Decisions, Even if You’re Depressed

One thing most people don’t realize about depression is that people who are depressed typically make worse decisions. Faced with some problem or opportunity, depressed people more often make a choice that will be worse for them in the long run. There are several reasons for this. One reason is that they typically have a… Continue Reading How to Make Better Decisions, Even if You’re Depressed

a woman cries as she talks to a group about how depression affects your decision making

How Does Depression Affect Your Decision Making?

When we think of depression, we typically think of prolonged sadness, lethargy, disturbed sleep, and suicidal thoughts. However, depression has effects beyond your energy level and mood. One of these effects is that depressed people have a harder time making good decisions. Interestingly, antidepressants don’t appear to improve decision making even when they improve mood.… Continue Reading How Does Depression Affect Your Decision Making?

a doctor explains why people become addicted to alcohol

4 Ways Alcohol Makes Depression Worse

There is a large overlap between depression and alcohol use disorders. Alcohol is a convenient way to temporarily relieve the symptoms of depression, such as persistent self-critical thoughts and ruminating on past mistakes or negative possibilities. This is especially true of men who suffer from depression. While fewer men than women suffer from depression, men… Continue Reading 4 Ways Alcohol Makes Depression Worse