What Is Depression?

Depression is more than just feeling sad or having a rough day. It’s a serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and manage daily activities like sleeping, eating, and working. While everyone experiences sadness at some point, depression is persistent and can make it hard to function.

Types of Depression

There are various types of depression, including:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): This is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness or loss of interest in life for at least two weeks. It’s one of the most common forms of depression.

• Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): Also known as dysthymia, this type of depression lasts for two years or more and tends to have less severe symptoms but longer duration.

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): This form of depression occurs during the winter months when there’s less sunlight, and it typically lifts during the spring or summer.

• Postpartum Depression: Affects women after childbirth, making it difficult to care for the baby and manage daily tasks.

Understanding these variations is key to recognizing the different ways depression can show up in people’s lives, especially for veterans, who may experience additional stressors.

Recognizing the Signs of Depression

Depression looks different for everyone, but there are some common symptoms you can look out for.

Emotional Symptoms

• Persistent sadness, anxiety, or "empty" feelings

• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism

• Irritability or frustration over small matters

• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

Physical Symptoms

• Fatigue or decreased energy

• Changes in appetite – weight gain or loss unrelated to dieting

• Sleep issues – difficulty sleeping, early morning waking, or oversleeping

• Physical pain that doesn’t seem to have a clear cause

Cognitive Symptoms

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering things, or making decisions

• Restlessness or agitation – being unable to sit still, pacing, or fidgeting

Recognizing these signs is important, whether you notice them in yourself or in a loved one. Veterans, in particular, might experience depression after returning from deployment or dealing with the stresses of transitioning to civilian life.

Causes and Risk Factors

There isn’t just one cause of depression. It’s often a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

Biological Causes

Depression can run in families, which suggests a genetic link. Chemical imbalances in the brain, particularly with neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, can also contribute to the onset of depression.

Psychological Factors

Trauma, stress, and significant life changes—like losing a job or going through a divorce—can trigger depression. Veterans are particularly at risk due to the intense emotional experiences they may face during deployment, such as combat or witnessing violence.

Environmental Factors

A person’s environment plays a significant role as well. Living in poverty, experiencing ongoing stress, or dealing with the loss of a loved one can increase the risk of developing depression. For veterans, the transition from military to civilian life can be especially challenging and may lead to feelings of isolation or a loss of purpose.

Diagnosing and Treating Depression

Seeking help is the first step toward healing. Depression is treatable, and there are several ways to manage and overcome it.

Diagnosis

A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone is suffering from depression. This typically includes discussions about mood, behavior changes, and any physical symptoms.

Treatment Options

Therapy

One of the most effective treatments for depression is talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people reframe negative thought patterns, while Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) teaches emotional regulation and coping skills. Veterans might also benefit from trauma-focused therapies, which address the specific issues they face.

Medication

For some, antidepressant medication can be a helpful part of managing depression. These medications work by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood. It’s important to talk to a doctor to determine if this option is right for you.

Alternative Treatments

Many people find relief through alternative treatments like mindfulness, exercise, and even yoga. These practices can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Supporting Someone with Depression

If you suspect someone you care about is struggling with depression, offering support is one of the most important things you can do. Here’s how you can help:

Recognize When They Need Help

Watch for changes in behavior, such as increased irritability, withdrawal from social activities, or a noticeable lack of energy. Veterans, in particular, might struggle silently, not wanting to appear weak or burden others with their feelings.

Offer Non-Judgmental Support

Let them know you’re there for them without pressuring them to "snap out of it." Active listening is key—sometimes, just being present can make a huge difference. You can say things like, "I’m here for you" or "It’s okay to not feel okay."

Encourage Professional Help

Suggest they seek out a mental health professional, especially if their symptoms have lasted for more than a few weeks. Veterans can access various resources through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and other veteran-focused organizations.

What Not to Say or Do

Avoid saying things like "Just think positive" or "Other people have it worse." These comments can feel dismissive and might discourage someone from opening up further. Instead, focus on being supportive and understanding.

How to Prevent Depression: Self-Care Tips

While depression isn’t always preventable, there are self-care practices that can reduce the risk or help manage the symptoms.

Build Emotional Resilience

Practice mindfulness and engage in stress management techniques like deep breathing or journaling. For veterans, it can be helpful to connect with others who share similar experiences through support groups or veteran networks.

Take Care of Your Body

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are essential for mental health. Physical activity can boost mood, while proper sleep helps regulate emotions.

Address Depression Early

If you or someone you know is starting to feel the symptoms of depression, don’t wait to seek help. The earlier it’s addressed, the better the outcomes tend to be.

At Victory Veteran Pro, we know how important it is to recognize the signs of depression and offer support to those affected—especially within our veteran community. Depression Awareness Month is a chance for all of us to educate ourselves, spread awareness, and take action. Whether you’re dealing with depression personally or supporting a loved one, remember that help is available, and healing is possible. Together, we can make a difference.

If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. We’re in this together.