Depression is a common medical illness that affects the way one feels and thinks. It causes feeling of sadness and decreased enthusiasm/interest in life activities.

The following are the common symptoms of depression:

1.Feeling sad most of the time

2.Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed

3.Repeated crying spells for no reasons

4.Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain

5.Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

6.Loss of energy, getting tired easily

7.Negative thinking

8.Poor concentration

9.Thoughts of death or suicide

It is one of the commonest medical illness and around one in six people will experience depression once in their life time.

Absolutely yes. 80-90% of patients respond to treatment. A combination of medications and psychotherapy (counseling sessions) is the best approach.

Yes, many things. To start with, go for a short ten minutes run every day. Practice yoga or meditation. Try not to be alone. But most importantly, take medicines regularly and come for therapy sessions regularly.