Depression

Some days are harder than others, but not every day is meant to be hard. Depression is a mood disorder that can lengthen the hard days and take a toll on your daily routines, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Signs and Cause of Depression

Signs that you may be experiencing depression are:

  • Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day for over two weeks
  • Loss of interest or pleasure most of the day, nearly every day for over two weeks
  • Changes in appetite
  • Feelings of unworthiness or extreme guilt

The cause of depression can vary from:

  • Biological
  • Genetic
  • Environmental
  • Psychological

Types of Depression

There are different forms of depression:

  • Major Depression Disorder: Depressed mood or loss of interest. Usually lasts about two weeks and disrupts daily routines.
  • Persistent Depressive Disorder: Will be less severe symptoms of depression that last longer for at least two years.
  • Perinatal Depression: Depression during pregnancy or after childbirth. Depression during pregnancy is prenatal depression, and postpartum depression is after the baby is born.
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder: Depression that varies with the seasons. Symptoms may begin in late fall or early winter.
  • Depression with symptoms of psychosis: This is a severe form of depression. A person experiences symptoms of psychosis such as delusions and hallucinations.

Treatment for Depression

The first step of treatment is to reach out and talk to someone. If you feel you may be experiencing some form of depression, contact your primary care provider for a diagnosis. Once you receive a diagnosis, then the collaborative care is set in motion to best serve you.

Treatments for depression include:

  • Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
  • Medication

Talk to your provider to collaborate on a plan that treats your individual needs. Depression is part of the list of Mental Health Care services provided by TRICARE. Services such as Virtual Mental Health Care are also available.

Additional Resources:

Support Resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing any form of crisis:

  • Dial 988 and then press 1.
  • If you prefer to chat with someone online, visit the Military Crisis Line.
  • Prefer text communication? Text 838255.

Last Updated 11/21/2025