Depression

The specialist who usually guides this condition is the general practitioner, the family physician, or the internist, who can carry out the initial evaluation and refer to mental health care when necessary.

What is it? Depression is a mood disorder that goes beyond passing sadness, since it affects, in a sustained way, how a person thinks, feels, and functions in daily life.

Common symptoms:

• Persistent sadness or emptiness and loss of interest in activities
• Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
• Difficulty concentrating and a feeling of discouragement

When to seek care? If these symptoms persist for several weeks or interfere with work, studies, or relationships, seeking professional support is an important step toward well-being.