Depression Answers

Depression and Symptoms of Depression ?

Q.Major depression is when five or more symptoms of depression are present for at least 2 weeks. These symptoms include feeling sad, hopeless, worthless, or pessimistic. In addition, people with major depression often have behavior changes, such as new eating and sleeping patterns. Major depression increases a person's risk of suicide.

A.The exact cause of depression is not known. Many researchers believe it is caused by chemical imbalances in the brain, which may be hereditary or caused by events in a person's life. Some types of depression seem to run in families, but depression can also occur in people who have no family history of the illness. Stressful life changes or events can trigger depression in some people. Usually, a combination of factors is involved. Each year, more than 18 million Americans -- men and women of all ages, races, and economic levels -- have depression. It occurs more often in women. Women are especially vulnerable to depression after giving birth. This is a result of the hormonal and physical changes. While new mothers commonly experience temporary "blues," depression that lasts longer than 2-3 weeks is not normal and requires treatment. Major depression can occur in children and teenagers, and they can also benefit from treatment. Depression can appear as anger and discouragement rather than feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. If depression is very severe, it may be accompanied by psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions. These are usually consistent with the depressed mood, and may focus on themes of guilt, personal inadequacy, or disease. Yep, all sounds very familiar. One part I sometimes forget is that depression can appear as anger and discouragement....not that I don't feel those things, but they are more difficult symptoms for me to recognize and cope with when displayed by others.

Other Questions :

Newer Antidepressants Provide Hope for Effective Drug Treatment of Depression in Children and Adolescents

Major depression is a common, debilitating and potentially life-threatening disorder. When compared with the pharmacological treatment of major depressive episodes during adulthood, relatively little is known about the pharmacological treatment...

Christmas depression ?

It is coming upon Christmas time, which used to be my favorite time of year, but this year I just don't have that Christmas spirit. There are a few reasons for this. Number one is, surprisingly, not the MonSter, though it plays a close second. ...

Postpartum Depression Article I wrote/coping tips

In light of the Texas murders and the more frequent than usual postings about PPD, I thought I would share an article I wrote after Suzanne Killinger-Johnson killed herself and her baby in Toronto last year. At the bottom of the article there ...

Depression research on the scale of space program ?

I am so sick of reading about stupid ass clinical studies researching another use for an SSRI or more mumbo jumbo psychology studies bullshit. Fuck that. We need a major movement in this country. We need more money spent on the neurobiological ...

Are Large Goiters Signs of Manic Depression?

I've been looking all over the web for info on this. If anyone knows, would they please please let me know.Well, I don't know. It's just like this whole year has just been in the toilet. Everybody just argues all the time about everything and I...

 

Submit a Depression Question

Submit an Question

Other Depression Sites

Site Information

About Us
Contact Me
Privacy Policy

Sitemap

©2007 Depression Answers All Right Reserved.