Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. It can affect a person's thoughts, feelings, behavior, and physical well-being. Depression can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. It can be treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on changing the thought patterns and behaviors associated with the disorder. Other forms of therapy, such as interpersonal therapy and psychodynamic therapy, may also be effective for treating depression. It's important to seek professional help if you are experiencing symptoms of depression, as it is a treatable condition.