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What is Depression?
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. Unlike the normal sadness or grief that accompanies life's challenges, depression is a persistent state that impairs your ability to function at work, at home, and in relationships.
The relationship between depression and overall mental health is profound. Untreated depression can lead to severe anxiety, substance use disorders, and chronic physical health issues like heart disease and weakened immune response. It fundamentally alters brain chemistry, specifically affecting neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine that regulate mood and energy.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated 21 million adults in the United States have had at least one major depressive episode. Despite its prevalence, the stigma surrounding depression often prevents people from seeking the care they need. At Sunrise Human Care Services, we provide a judgment-free, clinical environment to help you heal.
Types of Depression
Depression isn't a single, uniform condition. It presents in various forms, each requiring a tailored clinical approach. The most common types of depression we treat include:
Major Depressive Disorder
Severe, persistent low mood and loss of interest lasting for at least two weeks.
Persistent Depressive (PDD)
A continuous, long-term, chronic form of depression lasting for two years or more.
Seasonal Affective (SAD)
Depression that occurs at a specific time of year, usually during winter months.
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) Symptoms and Causes
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is the classic form of clinical depression. It involves episodes of overwhelming sadness and a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, severely impacting day-to-day life.
Causes: MDD is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Changes in brain function, particularly involving neurotransmitters, are significant. Major life changes, trauma, and severe stress can trigger an episode in vulnerable individuals.
Symptoms:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
- Decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling "slowed down"
- Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
- Appetite and/or weight changes
- Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), formerly known as dysthymia, is a continuous, long-term form of depression. While the symptoms may not be as severe as Major Depressive Disorder, they are chronic and can last for years, making it difficult to feel upbeat even on happy occasions.
Causes: The exact cause of PDD is unknown, but like MDD, it likely involves biological differences in the brain, inherited traits, and life events. People with PDD often have co-occurring anxiety disorders or substance use issues.
Symptoms:
- Deep sadness or feelings of emptiness lasting for years
- Low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy
- Chronic fatigue and lack of energy
- Difficulty making decisions and poor concentration
- A general feeling of "going through the motions" of life
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression related to changes in seasons. SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. For most people with SAD, symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping energy and making them feel moody.
Causes: The reduced level of sunlight in fall and winter may cause winter-onset SAD. This decrease in sunlight may disrupt your body's internal clock (circadian rhythm) and cause a drop in serotonin, a brain chemical that affects mood. It can also disrupt the balance of the body's level of melatonin, which plays a role in sleep patterns and mood.
Symptoms:
- Oversleeping (hypersomnia)
- Appetite changes, especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates
- Weight gain
- Tiredness or low energy despite getting enough sleep
- Social withdrawal or "hibernating"
Accessible Depression Treatment in Darby, PA
At Sunrise Human Care Services, we proudly serve the Darby community and surrounding areas in Delaware County. Conveniently located at 869 Main Street, we make high-quality psychiatric care and depression therapy accessible.
100% Medicaid Acceptance
We exclusively accept Medicaid to ensure critical care reaches those who need it most.
Communities We Serve
Holli O'Donnell, Licensed Mental Health Professional
Holli O'Donnell is a dedicated mental health professional at Sunrise Human Care Services, specializing in the diagnosis and evidence-based treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, and complex psychiatric conditions.
Last Updated: April 14, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
While sadness is a normal human emotion triggered by difficult events, clinical depression is a persistent mood disorder. Sadness usually comes in waves and allows for moments of joy, whereas depression is a constant heavy cloud that affects your sleep, appetite, energy, and self-worth for weeks or months at a time.
For mild to moderate depression, therapy (especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) is often highly effective on its own. It helps you build coping skills and rewire negative thought patterns. However, for severe depression, a combination of therapy and medication is usually the gold standard of treatment.
There is no set timeline, as it depends on the severity and type of depression. Many patients start noticing improvements in their sleep and energy levels within 4 to 6 weeks of starting treatment. Deeper emotional shifts often occur over 3 to 6 months of consistent therapy.
Extreme fatigue is a core symptom of depression. We understand how hard it can be to take that first step. We offer telehealth appointments so you can begin treatment from the comfort of your home, removing the barrier of having to travel when you're feeling depleted.
Genetics do play a role; if you have a first-degree relative with depression, your risk is higher. However, it's usually a combination of genetic vulnerability, brain chemistry, and environmental stressors (like trauma, loss, or chronic stress) that trigger a depressive episode.
Start your recovery within 24 hours.
You shouldn't have to wait months for professional support. Our Darby clinical team is ready to respond to your request by the next business day. 100% confidential. Medicaid accepted.
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Mon - Fri, 9 AM - 5 PM