Depression News & Features

May 17, 2023 — In a survey, 29% of adults said they had been diagnosed with depression during their lifetime, and 18% said they currently have depression or are being treated for it. Those rates are up from the baseline 2015 rates of 20% of people ever having depression, and 11% of people with a current diagnosis.

April 25, 2023 — People who frequently eat fried food, particularly potatoes like french fries, have a higher risk of anxiety or depression, according to a new study.

April 4, 2023 — Depressed adults who were given a self-directed workbook focusing on mindfulness practices plus cognitive therapy saw greater improvement in their depression (at less cost) than peers who were given a self-help book focusing solely on cognitive therapy in a large study from the United Kingdom.

February 17, 2023 — The Pennsylvania Democrat is being treated for clinical depression at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

February 13, 2023 — Researchers from Harvard and Emory Universities have found a link between long-term exposure to air pollution and being diagnosed with depression after age 64.

An expert in treatment-resistant depression shares successful treatment strategies doctors can try to help with TRD.

November 3, 2022 — A naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in “magic mushrooms” can help treat depression, according to a key study.

October 31, 2022 — For some people, depression appears only in the winter months when the days are shorter. A new analysis predicts that this type of depression, known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), will peak the first week of November.

September 12, 2022 — People with treatment-resistant depression showed fewer symptoms of depression, thoughts of suicide, and anxiety after receiving injections of ketamine, a study published in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry says.

Find out how to start the conversation about depression with kids.

See how one person manages the ups and downs of major depressive disorder -- and how her depression inspired her career as a therapist.

Major depressive disorder can ebb and flow. Here’s how someone with the condition manages the down times.

Depression affects both you and those around you. An expert who lives with the condition shares ways you can help others to help you.

Learn from a mental health advocate how the stigma of depression is changing and how acceptance is the first step to managing major depressive disorder.

It can be hard to be open with others about major depressive disorder. Here’s how one person with the condition talks about it.

Treatment for major depressive disorder has made rapid advances, with new therapies that fit each person. An expert talks about the latest research.

Treatment for depression isn't just about all the old antidepressants you've already heard of. The new generation of drugs may work faster, and nondrug treatments also are effective.

Learn about the pros and cons of using apps and online therapy to manage depression.

Learn about ways that major depressive disorder may affect you, including changes in energy level and appetite.

Depression is a chronic health condition. Learn how you can help someone in your life that is battling depression.

Getting diagnosed with depression brings up different emotions for different people. After your doctor or mental health provider gives you the news, it’s a good idea to reach out for support from family, friends, or others in your community.

Figuring out the right treatment for your depression can take time and patience. Learn more about how to find an antidepressant or other treatment that works for you.

WebMD explores the different kinds of depression and ways to treat them.

Is it a club drug or an antidepressant? Learn about the uses, benefits, and side effects of ketamine.

Learn more about how stress and depression are connected and what you can do to develop an active coping strategy.

Some life events can trigger depression, but you can take action to soften the blow.

Managing treatment-resistant depression requires the right medicine in the right dosage and taking it the right way. Learn about medication strategies.

Patience and persistence are key with treatment-resistant depression. Learn how long to stick with a medication, and options for managing this condition.

Striking a balance to manage treatment-resistant depression can take a toll. Learn from one patient's journey and see how research and community can help.

Depression treatment isn’t always easy. Find out about the side effects of antidepressants and depression treatment. Learn what you can do about them.

You’ve been diagnosed with depression -- now what? Find out more about treatment, support, and life with this common mental disorder.

Antidepressants are a common way to treat depression. But they work a little differently for everyone.

You probably got your antidepressants from your primary care doctor. But how should follow-up care work?

Is it normal to feel lonely after college? Find out why post-college depression happens to many graduates and what you can do about it.

Being aware of your negative thoughts can help you build the skills to overcome them.

It's tempting to stop taking antidepressants when you feel better, but doing so could make your condition more difficult to manage.

Is your spouse depressed? If your loved one withdraws from activities or sex, spends more time alone, or drinks more alcohol than they once did, they may have depression. Find out what to do if your partner refuses to get therapy and get tips to protect your own mental health.

If you have major depressive disorder (MDD), you may wonder if it’ll affect your plans for a family. Will you have to stop taking your antidepressant? What are the risks to your baby if you don’t? Can you take antidepressants while breastfeeding?

January 2, 2020 — Using artificial intelligence, doctors and researchers believe they can more quickly identify people at risk of suicide or self harm.

January 15, 2018 — Almost 3 in 5 UK adults depend on alcohol to help them deal with the pressures of day to day life, a survey has revealed.

Find out how writing your thoughts in a journal can let you shift your perspective and help you manage the symptoms of depression.

August 8, 2017 — Researchers have coded a computer program to look for signs of depression in photos that people post on social media.

WebMD shares what you should know about depression.

Newsman Dan Harris shares how meditation helped him deal with depression and anxiety.

Find out how pets can help ease your depression by offering love, companionship, a sense of purpose, and more.

Being depressed can make you feel helpless. You're not. Along with therapy and sometimes medication, there's a lot you can do on your own to fight back. Changing your behavior -- your physical activity, lifestyle, and even your way of thinking -- are all natural depression treatments.

Do you juggle a busy lifestyle even when you’re depressed? Tips on coping when you’re depressed.

Your doctor is your depression ally. Learn how your doctor can help you get the most from your treatment.

Tips on breaking the vicious cycle of depression to help you live your best life.