Facts about Depression

• There are various forms or types of depression. Some depressive episodes begin suddenly for no apparent reason, while others can be associated with a life situation or stress.
• Depression may result from an inability to deal with extreme situations in one’s life or from a chemical imbalance.
• Depression is so common that over 1 in 5 Americans can expect to get some form of depression in their lifetimes.
• Major depression is diagnosed on the basis of a careful clinical interview and mental status examinations. Women are almost twice as likely as men to experience a depressive episode.
• Many cases of depression among the elderly go undetected or untreated.
• Clinical depression is one of the most treatable of all medical illnesses.
• Symptoms can be relieved with psychological therapies, medications, or a combination of both.
• Depression is treatable. Between 80 and 90 percent of people with depression can be treated.
• People with clinical depression often do not have the motivation or energy to seek treatment.
• The support and involvement of family and friends can play a crucial role in helping someone who is depressed.
• The costs of treatment may be covered by participation in a private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, HMOs or other managed care plans.

Types of Depression

Clinical depression is a serious health problem that affects a person. It can change behavior, physical health and appearance, academic performance, and the ability to handle everyday decisions and pleasures.

Clinical depression affects 10 million Americans every year. One-fourth of all women and one-eighth of all men will suffer at least one episode or occurrence of depression during their lifetimes.

Less common forms of depression are the depressions related to Bipolar Disorder and Seasonal Affective Disorder. Bipolar Disorder involves cyclical periods of severe depression with periods of extremely elevated or irritable mood. Seasonal Affective Disorder describes depression during particular seasons of the year. Between 10-20% of women develop a form of depression called Post-Partum Depression.

Symptoms :

• 1.Loss of energy and interest.
• 2.Diminished ability to enjoy oneself .
• 3.Decreased or increased sleeping or appetite.
• 4.Difficulty in concentrating; indecisiveness; slowed or fuzzy thinking.
• 5.Exaggerated feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiety.
• 6.Feelings of worthlessness.
• 7.Recurring thoughts about death and suicide.

If most of these symptoms last 2 weeks or more, it may be a depressive illness. Persons who suffer from depression may experience functional impairment, increased risk of suicide, higher health care expenses and losses in productivity.