Everyone gets sad sometimes—a brief blue mood, disappointments,
grief after losing a loved one. Depression, though, is different. It is
not just a case of the blues. And it is not a weakness or a personality
flaw.
Depression is a very real and serious medical illness. It influences
people's attitudes toward themselves, others, and life in general. It
takes away their feelings of well-being. Depression changes the way a
person thinks and behaves.
Depression is a common illness. According to the National Institute
of Mental Health, more than 19 million Americans suffer from clinical
depression each year. And anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or
socioeconomic status, can suffer from depression.
Much like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease, depression is a disease
that requires medical attention and treatment. Otherwise, if left
untreated, depression can last months or, in some cases, years.
What are the signs of
depression?
There
are several signs and symptoms that help a healthcare professional
determine if a person has depression. These include:
-
Depressed
or irritable mood most of the day —nearly every day
-
Loss
of interest or pleasure in activities (such as hobbies, work, or
being with friends) most of the day—nearly every day
-
A
sudden change in weight or appetite, inability to sleep or sleeping
too much
-
Constant
fatigue or loss of energy
-
Frequent
feelings of worthlessness or guilt
-
Difficulty
concentrating or making decisions
-
Frequent
thoughts of death or suicide
-
Agitation
or restlessness
One
doesn't need to have all these signs and symptoms to have depression.
Symptoms will also vary from person to person and may even change in the
same person from time to time.
