Heaolu Keskus · Mental health
Depression is not a sign of weakness. It is a condition that can arise from a combination of long-term stress, life changes, losses or biological factors. Depression is common and treatable.
Symptoms
Depression is a condition in which low mood or loss of interest lasts for at least several weeks and affects everyday life. Symptoms can differ from person to person.
Physical symptoms
Fatigue and physical sensations
Fatigue and lack of energy · sleep problems (sleeping too much or insomnia) · changes in appetite · a physical sense of heaviness
Emotional symptoms
Mood and feelings
Persistent sadness or a sense of emptiness · hopelessness · loss of interest · guilt or self-blame
Related to thinking
Mind and thinking
Difficulty concentrating · slowed thinking · difficulty making decisions · negative thought patterns
How common is depression
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the world. It does not mean that you are weak — it means you have been under too much strain for too long.
people experience depression every year (WHO)
of European adults experience symptoms of depression each year
person may experience a depressive episode during their lifetime
Causes
Long-term stress
Depression often develops from the combined effect of chronic stress and overload
Major life changes
Losses, divorce, job loss or other major life changes
Earlier difficulties
Previous mental health difficulties increase the risk of depression
Biological factors
Genetic predisposition and brain chemistry influence the development of depression
Social factors
Loneliness, relationship problems and a lack of social support
Often a combination of several factors
Depression does not usually arise from a single cause — most often it is the result of several factors acting together
Treatment and therapy
Recovery is a process — step by step it is possible to restore balance and a sense of joy in life. This is not simply a bad mood — it is a condition that lasts a longer time and needs attention.
Psychotherapy
CBT and supportive counselling
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the most evidence-based treatment for depression. It helps to change negative thought patterns.
Coping skills
Making conscious lifestyle changes
In therapy you learn coping skills, stress management and how to create balance in everyday life.
Therapy outcomes
What people experience
Improved mood · better coping with stress · changing negative thought patterns · restored self-confidence
When to seek help
Seeking help does not mean giving up. It means you are ready to take care of yourself.
Sadness lasting more than 2 weeks
If low mood lasts more than two weeks and does not ease, it is time to seek help
Everyday activities feel overwhelming
When ordinary life feels overwhelming and your energy has dropped to zero
A feeling of hopelessness
A sense that nothing will get better or that there is no future
A wish to withdraw
You have started to withdraw from loved ones and friends
Very negative thoughts
Thoughts become increasingly negative, or thoughts of self-harm arise
Depression is closely linked
to anxiety — read more about anxiety disorder on our website
BRAIN CHEMISTRY
Depression is not a question of weakness or willpower — it is an imbalance in brain chemistry and the nervous system. In depression, the balance of neurotransmitters — the brain's "chemical messengers" — is often disrupted. It is not only about producing hormones, but also about how the brain passes on its message: the receptors, nerve connections and the balance between different systems.
Serotonin activity is lower
Less contentment. More anxiety. Sleep and eating problems. Serotonin regulates mood stability, sleep and appetite — when its level falls, you feel unsettled and irritable.
The dopamine system is "sluggish"
Reduced motivation. Difficulty enjoying activities that once brought pleasure. Dopamine is linked to the reward and motivation system — its decline explains why everything can feel pointless and monotonous during depression.
Noradrenaline levels are lower
Tiredness and lack of energy. Difficulty concentrating. Noradrenaline is responsible for alertness and attention — low levels explain why someone with depression feels a constant sense of heaviness and fogginess.
Endorphin activity has fallen
A person no longer feels a lift in mood from movement or laughter. Endorphins are the body's natural "painkillers and feel-good chemicals" — their decline means that even the activities that usually feel good no longer bring relief.
The good news is that we can influence brain chemistry. Movement raises endorphin and dopamine levels. Good-quality sleep restores the serotonin system. Social support and safe relationships activate oxytocin. Therapy helps to change the thought patterns that keep the stress system running — and, when needed, medication supports the restoration of neurotransmitter balance.
For loved ones
You don't have to be a perfect helper. It is enough to be present and caring.
Listen and take them seriously
Without judgement or pressure
Say: „I'm sorry things are so hard for you.“ · „I'm here for you.“ · Someone with depression needs understanding.
Help with practical things
Small acts make a big difference
Offer help with small chores · a walk together · accompanying them to the doctor. Depression makes simple things feel like a burden.
Encourage professional help
Supportively, not by pressuring
Offer to help book an appointment or to go along to the visit. It is important to do this supportively, not under pressure.
We are here to help you
The first step is always the hardest — we are here to make it easier. Write or call us, and together we'll find the solution that suits you best.
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