Healing is possible
Depression Resources
Understanding depression and finding the right support for healing.
Need help right now? Support is available 24/7.
What is depression?
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, think, and act. It is more than feeling sad or going through a rough patch, it is a persistent condition that can significantly impact daily life.
Depression causes feelings of sadness and a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and home.
The good news: depression is among the most treatable of mental disorders. Between 80% and 90% of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment.
13.1%
Depression prevalence among people age 12 and older (past two weeks)
19.2%
Highest among adolescents ages 12 to 19
+60%
Increase in adolescent prevalence over the past decade
Source: CDC NCHS Data Brief No. 527, 2025.
Common signs and symptoms
Depression can look different from person to person. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood most of the day, nearly every day
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities once enjoyed
- Significant changes in appetite or unintended weight loss or gain
- Sleep disturbances, insomnia or oversleeping
- Fatigue and loss of energy nearly every day
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
- Physical symptoms like headaches or chronic pain with no clear cause
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Treatment options
Depression is highly treatable. Most people who seek treatment see significant improvement. Common approaches include:
- ✓Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy
- ✓Medication, antidepressants can help correct chemical imbalances in the brain
- ✓Lifestyle support, regular exercise, healthy sleep, nutrition, and stress management
- ✓Support groups, peer connection can be invaluable in recovery
Treatment plans should be developed with a qualified mental health professional and often combine several approaches.
Local Atlanta resources
Vetted organizations across metro Atlanta. Always confirm current hours and availability before visiting.
Grady Health System, Behavioral Health Services
Comprehensive mental health services including depression treatment, therapy, and medication management.
Phone: (404) 616-4307
80 Jesse Hill Jr. Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Emory Healthcare, Psychiatry
Academic medical center offering research-based depression treatment and care.
Phone: (404) 778-5526
Skyland Trail
Residential and day treatment programs for adults with depression and mood disorders.
Phone: 866-504-4966
4055 Paces Ferry Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
Note: Also has an adolescent program for ages 14 to 17.
NAMI Greater Atlanta
Support groups, education programs, and resources for individuals with depression and their families.
Phone: 770-408-0625
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Note: Programs for Spanish and Korean speakers and for families of incarcerated individuals.
National resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Free, confidential 24/7 support for anyone in distress, plus prevention and crisis resources.
Phone: 988
Crisis Text Line
Free, 24/7 support by text with a trained crisis counselor.
Phone: Text HOME to 741741
SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential 24/7 treatment referral and information for mental health and substance use.
Phone: 1-800-662-4357
NAMI HelpLine
Information, resources, and support for people affected by mental health conditions and their families.
Phone: 1-800-950-6264