Descriptions of depression

Depression is a common affliction. The percentage of people suffering from depression is staggering. Of course, the pandemic contributed to these numbers, but even before the pandemic the numbers were staggering.

There are many ways to define depression. I want to use descriptions, not definitions.

Depression is experienced as feeling low -- not having much energy for daily events or situations. Sleep tends to be affected, as well as thinking and focus. Depression affects appetite, and a person's interests can become non-existent. Sadness often accompanies depression, as well as helplessness,...