What is Depression?

Depressed people will seem sad, or "down," or may be unable to enjoy their normal activities. They may have no appetite and lose weight (although some people eat more and gain weight when depressed). They may sleep too much or too little, have difficulty going to sleep, sleep restlessly, or awaken very early in the morning. They may speak of feeling guilty, worthless, or hopeless; they may lack energy or be jumpy and agitated. They may think about killing themselves and may even make a suicide attempt. Some depressed people have delusions (false, fixed ideas) about poverty, sickness, or sinfulness that are related to their depression. Often feelings of depression are worse at a particular time of day, for instance, every morning or every evening.

Major depression, the kind of depression that will most likely benefit from treatment with medications, is more than just feeling down. It is a condition that lasts 2 weeks or more, and interferes with a person's ability to carry on daily tasks and enjoy activities that previously brought pleasure. Depression is associated with abnormal functioning of the brain. An interaction between genetic tendency and life history appears to determine a person's chance of becoming depressed. Episodes of depression may be triggered by stress, difficult life events, side effects of medications, or medication/substance withdrawal, or even viral infections that can affect the brain.

Being a little sad here and there is normal, but when it start interfering with your life, you need to seek medical attention. Only a doctor can diagnose you with depression and only a doctor can help you treat it. This does not mean that you will be prescribed a drug. Many forms of depression can be overcome with counseling or therapy with a psychologist. In severe cases, you may have to take medication. The key is to see a doctor when you think you have a problem.