Depression is a serious mood disorder. Also called Major Depressive Disorder or Clinical Depression, it is one of the most common mental disorders in the U.S. According to the World Health Organization, it affects more than 264 million people worldwide. Not limited to moods or “feeling down”, depression persistently impacts the day-to-day lives of the people who live with it. It can alter a person’s thoughts, perceptions, choices, and relationships in a negative way. Sometimes, it can make normal life and activities impossible. Often, people cope with depression through substance use and abuse. Drug misuse and depression are unfortunately common. Further, both issues are not always treated adequately.

Major depression is an extremely serious, even life-threatening condition, but it is highly treatable. With professional help, many people recover or are able to manage their symptoms and lead a normal life. Unfortunately, many people are often to receive adequate treatment. Subsequently, drug misuse and depression become a common combination.

What Causes Depression?

Depression is a difficult web to untangle. Genetics, brain chemistry, hormones, and life circumstances can all play a part. It can develop at any stage in life, though it often emerges in young adulthood. It can run in families, and is more common in women than in men. While it sometimes connects with a certain event or period in someone’s life, most people can’t fully understand why they’re depressed (often there are many causes at once). Depression often occurs along with other mental disorders, and there are strong links between drug misuse and depression.