DEPRESSION AND ITS SYMPTOMS

Everyone feels down sometimes. However, there is a difference between feeling down and being depressed.

Depression is common. As many as one in four people will suffer from depression at some time. Depression often occurs in people with severe health problems, such as heart disease or AIDS. Teenagers and older adults may be at high risk. It's more common in women than men but can affect anyone at any age. Depression often runs in families.

Even though depression is common, many people do not seek help for it. People often blame themselves for feeling bad and do not let their families or doctors know how they feel. There are several signs of depression.

You may be depressed if you:

feel sad or empty
have lost your sense of enjoyment or fun
have lost or gained weight
have trouble sleeping or sleep excessively
feel either restless or really slowed down
feel like you have no energy
feel worthless or guilty
have trouble concentrating
lose interest in sex or
think a lot about death

Depression is a physical illness as well as a psychological one. It makes you feel bad physically, but the problems start with your emotions. Do not expect yourself to "snap out of it." It will take time to treat depression. A mental health provider skilled in cognitive therapy may help you feel better. You may need a medication. There are many new medications that have few side effects and work well for most people. Many times, a combination of medication and therapy can help you get well quickly and stay well.

To learn more, contact the National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association at 800-826-3632.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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