Depression can be difficult to put into words, even for yourself. Things that once felt manageable or meaningful may now feel heavy, distant, or out of reach. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 21 million adults in the United States experienced at least one major depressive episode in 2021, representing about 8.3% of all U.S. adults. Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions, and i