Depression is a condition characterized by sadness, hopelessness and feelings of worthlessness or guilt. Loss of interest, decreased energy and concentration difficulties are also common complaints. Long recognized as a mental illness, depression has been the subject of many clinical trials. A large body of information is now available on depression.
It Affects All Ages
Depression can affect any age group. Seniors often suffer depression, brought on partly by continued losses, poor health or recognition that their life goals will not be achieved. It is thought that even babies can show signs of depression, particularly when born to a depressed mother.
There Are Several Types
There are several types of depression. The type thought of as "depression" is actually called major depressive disorder. You could also suffer from bipolar disorder, a condition in which episodes of depression and mania alternate with periods of normal mood. Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression usually suffered during the winter, and postpartum depression occurs after childbirth.
Women Are Affected More Than Men
PBS.org reports that women are about twice as likely to become depressed. This may be due to hormonal differences or it may be due to women feeling less in control of their lives than men do.
It Goes Unrecognized
Most people who are depressed have not sought treatment. They may feel so hopeless that they think nothing can help or they may not realize they have a treatable mental condition.
Different Treatments Work
Different treatments work for different people. You may benefit from an antidepressant while your sister may find cognitive behavioral therapy more beneficial. Your friend may find psychoanalysis more helpful than medication. For some, depression eases on its own while others require hospitalization or a combination of drugs and therapy.
It Causes Physical Symptoms
Depression may manifest as a physical symptom, such as backache, body ache, stomachache or headache. This can cause it to go unrecognized for months or years.
It Can Lead to Suicide
Depression can lead to suicide. This can happen whether or not the person has threatened suicide. Some people give warning signs and others don't. All suicide threats should be taken seriously, and many experts feel that asking a depressed person if he is contemplating suicide is helpful, not harmful.
It Has a Variety of Causes
The Mayo Clinic explains that depression may be caused from traumatic or sad events, child abuse or stress. It may also be caused by hormones or chemicals in the body. Some cases are due to factors you inherit from a parent.
You Can Have Different Responses
People have different responses to depression. You may want to sleep all the time or you may have great difficulty falling or staying asleep. You may find yourself trying to eat your troubles away or you may lose your appetite and suffer a significant weight loss.
It Weakens the Body's Defenses
Depression weakens the body's natural defenses. PBS reports that depression leaves the body susceptible to other conditions due to dampening the immune system. It can also lead to a worse outcome for people with heart disease, heart attack and heart failure. This makes it imperative to seek treatment for depression.
