What Is Depression?
I have felt sad you have felt sad, in fact, everyone occasionally feels blue or sad, but these feelings are typically come and go in a couple of days. However, people with a depressive disorder that usually isn’t the case. The sad feelings interferes with their daily lives, normal functioning, and causes pain for both the person with the depression and their loved ones. Depression is a common illness and can be very serious if not addressed and treated. The majority of people with a depressive illness can get better with treatment but the problem is many people never seek treatment. Intensive research into the illness has resulted in the development of medications, psychotherapies, and other methods to treat people with this disabling disorder. |
What are the signs and symptoms of depression?
Symptoms vary from person to person with a depressive disorder as well as the severity, duration, and frequency.
Common Symptoms of Depression Include:
- Overeating, or appetite loss
- Persistent sad, anxious or "empty" feelings
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
- Irritability, restlessness
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
- Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
- Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
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