What is Depression?

Depression is an illness than affects the mind and body. It is a state of mind characterized by significant levels of sadness, lack of energy, low self-worth, guilt and other related symptoms (Comer, 2001). Clinical depression is more than an occasional episode of sadness or feeling down. You may suffer from depression if you have at least five of the following symptoms for at least two weeks and if the symptoms affect your performance in your daily life.

Symptoms of Depression

• Persistent sad, low mood or anxiety
• A loss of interest in activities that normally are pleasurable
• Significant weight loss or gain
• Sleep problems (too much, too little, or interrupted)
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
• Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness and pessimism
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Excessive crying or irritability
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Treatment for Depression

More than half of adults who suffer clinical depression never seek treatment, despite the fact that about 80% of those who receive treatment improve substantially. A combination of antidepressant medications and psychotherapy is the most effective treatment for a great number of patients. Other treatments are used for people who do not respond to medication or psychotherapy.

Where can I go for help?