Depression

Depression is a medical illness that affects millions of people worldwide.  We all feel sad from time to time, but depression is a feeling that lasts for several days and begins to affect daily life.  Defining depression can be somewhat difficult because it varies from patient to patient, but in most cases it is categorized as a consistent feeling of sadness or hopelessness that the individual can’t overcome on their own.  One of the problems with depression is that people incorrectly believe that it is their own problem that they can manage, but depression can be a serious condition that requires medical attention from a trained and licensed professional.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of depression include:

• Feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and pessimism
• Trouble sleeping or too much sleeping
• Significant weight fluctuation
• Difficulty concentrating
• Withdrawal
• Permeating thoughts of death

Causes and Getting Help

Causes of depression aren’t fully understood.  People of all ages, sexes, and social standing can become depressed and there is little consensus on concrete causes.  Some contend that depression is traced to a chemical imbalance in the brain, while others believe it to be hereditary.  Excessive stress and significant life changes have also been shown to cause depression. Chronic back and neck pain can also take their toll and sometimes contribute to depression.

The most important thing to understand about depression, bar none, is that this is a medical condition that requires immediate attention. Depression is not something you can “shake” or ignore and hope it goes away.  If you, or someone you love, may be experiencing depression, don’t wait.  Visit your doctor and describe your feelings in detail to determine the best course of treatment for you.