Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and functions in everyday life. It’s more than just feeling sad or going through a tough time. Depression is persistent and can deeply interfere with a person’s ability to work, connect with others, and take care of themselves.

According to Mental Health America, major depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, affecting over 8% of American adults each year, which translates to more than 21 million people. It also impacts 15% of youth ages 12–17, or about 3.7 million adolescents. Symptoms can include sadness, a feeling of emptiness, a loss of interest in daily pleasures, or even worse, suicidal thoughts. 

The good news is that depression is treatable. With the right support—whether therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination—recovery is absolutely possible, but it takes a village to help someone get out of a depressive bout. 

Here’s what you shouldn’t say to someone fighting depression.