What is depression
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Depression is a complex series of symptoms that affects a person's emotions and physiology. describes depression as involving disruptions in sleep, appetite, and hormone levels. Individuals with depression often experience a reduction in overall excitement, alongside feelings of grief, guilt, and anxiety. Physiological factors include increased levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, which may shift to being released later in the day, along with disruptions in appetite-related hormones such as hypocretin, orexin, and ghrelin 1.
The issue of depression has been particularly noticeable in younger populations since around 2012, with a significant rise in depression and anxiety among girls. This trend correlates with the increase in smartphone use, which introduces multiple harmful changes such as decreased sleep, exposure to blue light, and altering social dynamics. These factors contribute to the complex web of causes and effects influencing mental health 2.
