How long does depression last? Plus, 8 self-care tips to help
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, CDCES, MBA
How long does depression last? Explore how the type and cause of depression can affect its duration. Plus, 8 self-care tips that may decrease how long it lasts.
Everyone who experiences depression experiences it differently — and this includes the length of time they might feel unwell. How long depression lasts can depend on factors such as the specific type of depression, what causes it, its severity, and how it’s treated.
For some, depression might last only a few weeks. For others, it could linger for months or even years if not appropriately addressed. Understanding what can affect the duration of the depression can help you manage expectations and seek the right kind of support and treatment.
How long depression lasts can be influenced by several factors
The duration of depression can vary greatly based on several key influences:
Type of depression
Triggers or causes of depression
Severity of the depressive episodes
Approach to treating depression
3 types of depression and their duration
There are several types of depression, each with its own characteristics. Understanding these can help you and your healthcare providers track the likely course of the condition and tailor treatments accordingly.
This can help you decide on the most effective therapeutic interventions to manage symptoms, set realistic recovery goals, and shorten the duration of suffering.
1. Major depressive disorder (MDD)
Major depressive disorder is characterized by intense episodes of sadness, a loss of interest in activities, and a variety of physical and emotional problems that impair daily functioning.
Episodes of major depression typically last at least two weeks, but without treatment, they may extend for several months. The duration can vary widely depending on individual circumstances and the effectiveness of treatment.
2. Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
Compared to major depressive disorder, dysthymia is a milder (but more chronic) form of depression. Those with dysthymia experience a depressed mood that lasts for most of the day, and they experience this depression more days than not. This can persist for at least two years in adults or one year in children and adolescents.
Because of its chronic nature, people might not feel intensely depressed but generally feel low most of the time, and the condition may require long-term treatment strategies.
3. Situational depression (adjustment disorder with depressed mood)
Triggered by significant life changes or stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or major illness, situational depression is generally temporary.
The duration of this type of depression typically aligns with how long it takes you to adapt to the new situation or resolve the ongoing stressors. Most people start to feel better as they begin to cope and adjust, often within a few months.
How can the causes of depression influence duration?
The underlying causes of depression significantly influence its duration, shaping how treatment is approached and how long symptoms might persist. By addressing the specific causes of depression, it becomes possible to tailor interventions that not only treat the symptoms but also target the root of the problem. This can potentially shorten the duration of depression and improve the quality of life for those affected.
Biochemical factors: In many cases, depression is linked to an imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These biochemical imbalances may require ongoing management, including medication, to stabilize mood over the long term. The duration of depression can vary depending on the person’s response to medication.
Life events: Significant life events, whether positive or negative, can trigger depression. Events like the death of a loved one, losing a job, or moving to a new city can lead to situational depression. The duration of depression in these cases often depends on how quickly you can adapt to the change or resolve the underlying stressor. With appropriate coping strategies and support, many people begin to feel better within a few months.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can also lead to depression, including chronic illness, chronic pain, or mental health disorders, such as anxiety. Managing these medical conditions can be complex, and the depression associated with them may last as long as the condition is present. Effective management of the primary medical issue can lead to an improvement in depressive symptoms.
Genetic predisposition: Sometimes, depression runs in families, which may suggest a genetic component to the disorder. People with a family history of depression may experience longer or more frequent episodes of depression. Understanding this genetic link can help in preparing a more effective, long-term treatment plan.
Environmental factors: Continuous exposure to a negative or stressful environment can prolong depression. This might include living in an area with high crime or poverty, ongoing problems within personal relationships, or chronic work stress. Changing the environment or learning strategies to cope with these factors can be an important influence on the duration of depression.
8 self-care tips and resources to decrease the duration of depression
Self-care can play an important role in managing depression, and can be an effective way to help reduce its duration and severity. By incorporating self-care strategies in your daily routines, you can enhance your ability to cope with symptoms of depression, and you may find your episodes of depression become shorter and less severe.
1. Practice self-compassion
If you’re experiencing depression, treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Recognize that depression is a genuine, serious health condition — not a weakness — and work on developing a more compassionate self-view.
💙 Join Mel Mah in The Daily Move’s guided exercise routine on Building Self-Compassion.
2. Share your feelings
Open up about emotions and experiences with trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals to help reduce feelings of isolation and helplessness. Sharing can help validate your feelings and provide new perspectives on managing depressive symptoms.
💙 Get deeper access to your emotions in order to share them more clearly during the Clarify Your Feelings Through Writing session.
3. Re-engage with hobbies
Activities that once brought joy can often feel like chores if you’re experiencing depression. However, gently reintroducing these activities can boost mood and provide a sense of accomplishment and normalcy.
💙 Move past your boundaries and step outside of your Comfort Zone with this mindfulness practice to help you take the leap toward hobbies you love.
4. Stay active
Physical exercise is good for the mind. Try activities such as walking, yoga, or swimming, which can help to increase the production of natural mood-lifting chemicals in your body. Even light physical activity can make a big difference.
💙 For lower-intensity movement that helps reduce stress and improve mood, try to Walk Away Stress.
5. Focus on nutrition
What we eat can affect how we feel. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can provide the necessary nutrients to support brain health and overall wellbeing. Avoid excessive sugar and alcohol as part of your self-care strategies for depression.
💙 To learn more about nutrition and eating to improve how you feel, check out our Mindful Eating masterclass.
6. Ensure adequate sleep
Depression can often disrupt sleep patterns, leading to a vicious cycle of sleeplessness and worsening symptoms. Establish a regular sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day to help improve sleep quality.
💙 On those nights when moving from your busy day to a restful evening is difficult, try pressing play on the sleep meditation When It’s Hard to Fall Asleep.
7. Use support resources
Many communities offer support groups where people with depression can connect and share their experiences. Look out for online resources and apps designed to help manage depression, too, as these can also be useful.
💙 During the Rethinking Depression masterclass, you’ll learn six science-backed strategies for overcoming the pitfalls of depression and living a more vibrant life day-to-day.
8. Seek professional help
Always remember that while self-care for depression can support treatment, these strategies don’t replace the need for professional help in more severe cases. While self-care strategies can be beneficial, professional help is often essential for effectively managing depression. This might include therapy, medication, or both. Talk to a mental health professional for guidance tailored to your individual needs.
How long does depression last? FAQs
How long do most people feel depressed for?
The duration of depression can vary from person to person. For some, depressive episodes may last only a few weeks, especially if they receive timely and effective treatment. For others, particularly those with major depressive disorder or persistent depressive disorder, depression can last several months or even years.
The best way to manage depression effectively is to recognize symptoms as early as possible and seek appropriate treatment.
Can lifestyle changes affect how long depression lasts?
Lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on the duration and severity of depression. Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep can all contribute to improved mental health. It’s important to reduce stress, too. By supporting overall wellbeing and resilience, these lifestyle changes can help relieve and reduce symptoms of depression, and may potentially shorten its duration.
What signs show depression is improving?
Signs that depression may be improving can include a noticeable lift in mood, increased energy levels, and a renewed interest in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyable. Other positive signs can include improved sleep patterns, better concentration, and an overall sense of regained control over life. Friends and family might also notice that you seem more engaged and present when they spend time with you.
What should I do if I feel my depression is not getting better?
If you feel your depression isn’t improving, talk to your healthcare provider. They can reassess your treatment plan and make adjustments if necessary. This might involve changing medications, introducing different therapeutic techniques, or considering other interventions like lifestyle changes or support groups.
Be open and honest about your symptoms and progress with your treatment provider so they can help you get the best possible results.
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