Mente y estado de ánimo

Depression

Revisado: 4 de octubre de 2026

Solo en inglés por ahora

Depression is more than a few sad days. It is common, it affects how you feel, think and cope, and it can be treated. Here are the signs and where to start.

What depression is

Everyone feels sad or low at times. Depression is different. It is an illness that changes your mood and your thinking, and makes everyday things like sleep, meals and work harder to manage. It is common: the WHO estimates that about 1 in 20 adults worldwide have depression, and it is about 1.5 times more common in women than in men. Genes, body chemistry, stressful or difficult life events and your surroundings can all play a part.

Signs to look out for

The main signs are a low, sad, irritable or empty mood, or losing interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy. Other signs include feeling very tired, finding it hard to concentrate, sleeping or eating more or less than usual, feeling guilty or worthless, and feeling hopeless about the future. Some people have aches and pains with no clear physical cause. With depression, these feelings last most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks.

Depression and your hormones

Some types of depression are linked to times of hormone change. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) causes severe low mood, irritability and other symptoms in the weeks before a period. Perinatal depression can start during pregnancy or after giving birth. Some women also have depression during the change to menopause (perimenopause). If your low mood seems to follow your cycle, logging it in Ciclo can help you show a doctor the pattern.

Treatment that works

Depression can be treated, even when it is severe. Common treatments are talking therapy, antidepressant medicines, or both together. Talking therapies with good evidence include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), behavioural activation, interpersonal therapy and problem-solving therapy. Therapy can be face to face or online. A doctor or nurse can talk through the options with you and help you choose what suits you.

Things you can do for yourself

Small steps can support your recovery. Try to keep doing things you used to enjoy, even for a short time. Stay in touch with friends and family. Try to be active often. A short walk is a good start. Keep to regular times for eating and sleeping where you can. Avoid or cut down on alcohol, and avoid illegal drugs.

When to get help

See a doctor or nurse if you have had signs of depression most of the day, nearly every day, for 2 weeks or more. Go sooner if you are struggling to cope. Depression can affect anyone, and asking for help is a normal first step. If you are thinking about harming yourself or ending your life, get emergency help or contact a crisis line now.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. If you think you may have depression, talk to a doctor or nurse.