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Clinical depression is a serious medical illness that affects 11 million Americans each year, children as well as adults. 25% of women and 10% of men will experience one or
more episodes of depression during their lifetimes. Complex interactions involving brain structures and brain chemistry are connected to a clinical depression.
Depression affects mood, feelings and behavior. People with depression feel sad, helpless and hopeless and don’t find much pleasure in life. A single event, such as the loss of a loved one, loss of a job or developing a chronic illness can bring on depression. Factors such as family history, prolonged stress, serious illness, medicines and abuse of alcohol and drugs may contribute to depression.
Signs and symptoms, lasting two weeks or longer, can include:
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A persistent sad, helpless and hopeless mood
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Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
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Sleeping too little or too much
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Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased appetite and weight gain
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Fatigue or loss of energy
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Low self esteem, feelings of worthlessness and guilt
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Agitation or irritability
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Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
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Thoughts of death or suicide
It is important for persons experiencing a clinical depression to get proper treatment. The good news about depression is that there are effective treatments available today.
Treatments include therapy and/or medication. They help you get back into life.
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