Signs of Depression

Recognizing Signs of Depression

Depression can affect people of any background. Anyone can experience periods of depression. But when feelings of sadness and hopelessness last more than a few weeks, the depressed person may be considered to have clinical depression that requires treatment.

Depressed individuals are sad, and often express their sadness by crying. They may have feelings of worthlessness and helplessness. They may be indifferent or feel extreme guilt, and may withdraw from the activities they enjoyed prior to their depression.

Other signs of depression may include irritability, inability to concentrate, a change in appetite causing increases and decreases in weight, altered sleeping patterns, constant complaints of fatigue and an inability to remember things. If left untreated, depression can eventually lead to suicide. Some stress-related diseases can also result from depression.

Causes of Depression

Depression varies in severity and may be triggered by many factors, such as a traumatic experience, stress or even a change in seasons.

Researchers believe depression is caused by a combination of factors. It is often triggered by a major loss, such as through death or divorce, but abuse of alcohol or drugs can cause or complicate depression.

Recent studies have linked depression to genetics, which results in an imbalance in the chemicals that allow brain cells to communicate. Close relatives of people with depression are more likely than the general population to develop depression.

Depression Treatment

Depression affects people of all ages in every socioeconomic group. With 20% of women and 10% of men suffering from depression sometime in their lives, depression is among the most common, but also among the most treatable, of all mental illnesses. If used effectively, treatment can cure almost 90% of those suffering from depression.

Depression can be treated. Many types of antidepressants are available and are prescribed based on the type of depression, the person's health, physical traits and other factors. Psychotherapy is typically used along with medication for the treatment of depression.

Helping Someone With Signs of Depression

If you suspect you or someone you know has depression, do something about it. Depression can be life threatening. Seek professional counseling immediately.

For help, contact Walden Behavioral Care at 781-647-6700 or Info@waldenbehavioralcare.com.