What is Depression?

Depression is not something you can "snap out of." It's caused by an imbalance of the brain chemicals, along with other factors.
Like any serious medical conditions, depression needs to be treated.

Depression is more common in women then men, and can begin in puberty or eariler for some girls.
There are several kinds of depression, and a combination of approaches to be healing is optimal.
A person may include difficulty getting out of bed to face the day, suical desires, or even psychotic features.
Depression is not exactly the same as normal grief.
If you have lost a loved one,
lost a friends due to moving,
have suffered health problems,
financial loss,
divorce,
separation.
*You are mouring*.
Grief is normal human reaction to loss,
and support from others is crucial to getting through this time.

symptoms of Depression;
To diagnose the DSM-IV ( Diasgnosetic and statiscal manual)
requires the following to be present for most of the day, for a least 2 weeks;
*Loss of pleasure or interest in nearly all activity.
*Changes in weight, sleep, or activity.
*decreased enegry
*feelings of sadness.
*Hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness
*Difficulty thinking or concentrating
*Difficultymaking decisions
*Thoughts of death or suicide
*
If you are experiencing these symptoms, see a Doctor, find a therapist and / or support group immediately.
The best treatment is probably medication and psychotherapy together.
The medication will help the brain function better,
and therapy helps you discharge emotion and learn strategies to improve lifestyles and thinking patterns.
Together, they promote better health.

There's no simple explanation why people experience depression. It's a complex disease that may develop for a variety of reasons. It can affect anyone at any age, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or income level.

Some people become depressed after a major life change—the death of a loved one, a divorce, the loss of a job or a move. Even seemingly happy events, such as becoming a parent or getting married, can trigger depression. Or, even a smaller change can sometimes trigger depression.


It is important to seek help if you think you are depressed.

Get tips on talking to your doctor about depression

some websites to check out...

* www.depressionisreal.org
* www.womenshealth.gov