Depression Complete Guide | Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention, and Management 2025
Depression (Major Depressive Disorder) is one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide.
1. What is Depression?
Depression is diagnosed when low mood or loss of interest persists for at least two weeks, accompanied by fatigue, sleep or appetite changes, feelings of guilt, poor concentration, or suicidal thoughts. Recent data show rising prevalence in both major depressive disorder and atypical depression.
2. Diagnosis and Symptoms
Diagnosis follows DSM-5 criteria. Screening tools such as the PHQ-9 are recommended to assess severity. In Korea, surveys in 2024 revealed that over 70% of adults reported chronic stress, depressive mood, or anxiety within the last year, showing rising mental health needs.
1) Core Symptoms
- Persistent sadness and hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Sleep and appetite changes
- Difficulties with focus and memory
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
3. Treatment Strategies
2025 clinical guidelines recommend tailored treatment depending on severity and individual needs, combining medication and psychotherapy.
1) Medication Therapy
For mild depression, SSRIs are recommended as first-line treatment. For severe or psychotic depression, antidepressants may be combined with atypical antipsychotics. Esketamine nasal spray has emerged as an option for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), offering rapid symptom relief.
2) Non-Medication Therapy
Effective approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, physical exercise, and lifestyle modification. Bibliotherapy and structured social activities are also beneficial for mild to moderate depression.
3) Advanced Therapies
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and digital mental health tools (apps, wearables) are increasingly being adopted as supportive care for chronic and resistant cases.
4. Prevention and Self-Management
Preventing depression requires early detection and proactive lifestyle management:
- Regular exercise, balanced diet, and quality sleep
- Stress management and mindfulness practices
- Community-based counseling and mental health centers
- Monitoring mood changes through digital health tools and wearable devices
5. Policy and Public Health Response
Countries including South Korea are strengthening mental health policies (2021–2025 Mental Health Promotion Plan, HP2030). Strategies include expanding emergency psychiatric centers, improving community-based services, and reducing stigma through national campaigns.
As of 2025, depression is best managed with a multi-layered approach integrating medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle interventions, and national health policies. Early diagnosis, wider treatment accessibility, and public awareness are crucial to reducing the global burden of depression.
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