Depression
While almost everyone experiences sadness, most are able to recover from a low mood fairly easily and resume normal activities without treatment. However, an individual with a depressive disorder has persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness and a decreased desire to engage in activities that were formerly pleasurable.
A depressive disorder affects an individual’s ability to carry out normal daily activities, work, or engage in satisfying relationships.
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Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness or emptiness
Loss of enjoyment in activities that used to be pleasurable
Lack of energy
Changes in sleep, such as sleeping too much or sleeping too little
Having thoughts of suicide or wishing one were dead
Trouble concentrating or making decisions
Crying spells
Isolating from others
Chronic fatigue
Headaches
Irritability
Frequent self-blame
Feeling anxious
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Major depressive disorder affects 6.8% of adults in any given year.
The median age of onset of depression is 32 years old. Depression may affect anyone from pre-school youth to older adults.
Approximately 3.1 million adolescents had at least one major depressive episode in 2016. However, 60% did not receive treatment.
Depression is real — and so is the possibility of healing.
At Mental Health Fauquier, we’re working to change how depression is seen, talked about, and supported. Through shared stories, community education, and professional training, we’re creating a culture of compassion, not judgment.
Whether you’re living with depression, supporting a loved one, or working in the mental health field, this space is here for you — with tools to understand, resources to support, and a community that cares.
Together, we can replace silence with understanding and isolation with connection.
