Symptoms of Depression

Recognizing Symptoms of Depression

Depression can affect people of any background. Anyone can experience periods of depression and the symptoms associated with it. 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.

A major symptom of depressed individuals is sadness, and often an express of their sadness by crying. Individuals with symptoms of depression 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 symptoms 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 and its symptoms are 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 and its symptoms to genetics, which results in an imbalance in the chemicals that allow brain cells to communicate. Close relatives of people with depression symptoms are more likely than the general population to develop depression.

Treatment of Depression Symptoms

Depression affects people of all ages in every socioeconomic group. With 20% of women and 10% of men suffering from depression symptoms 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 symptoms.

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

Helping Someone With Symptoms of Depression

If you suspect you or someone you know has depression symptoms, 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.