Depression

Home » Depression » Overview

Overview

Everyone has times of feeling down or blue and usually these feelings pass quickly. However, in some people, the feelings are more severe and persistent. When a person experiences a low mood continually for more than two weeks, they may be suffering from clinical depression. Signs and symptoms of depression include the following:

• Agitation
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in sleep
• Complaints of vague pains or illness
• Hopeless and helpless feelings
• Impaired ability to think clearly
• Loss of interest in usual activities
• Low self-worth
• Sadness, irritability, and anxiety
• Thoughts of suicide and death
• Unusual fatigue

Depression affects a significant percentage of people at some point during their lives. For example, up to 25% of the elderly may suffer from depression. There may be a predisposition towards depressive disorders, although it is unclear to what extent genetic factors play a role.

Depression is treated with various therapies. Psychotherapy and drug therapy are the most typical treatments and may be administered on an outpatient or inpatient basis, depending on the severity of the illness. While rarely used for decades, electroconvulsive or "shock" therapy is being used again in more severe cases.

It may be difficult for those who are depressed to discuss their feelings with friends, family, and physicians. Many people, overwhelmed by their feelings, resist seeking treatment. It is important to remember that depression, like any disease, is not a sign of weakness. It is important for friends and family members to discuss their concerns and encourage a person who is suffering from depression to seek treatment.

© 1998-2008 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Depression Resources

	Join Our Depression Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted.
	Stay Updated Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you.
Advertising Disclaimer To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar. Advertising Disclaimer