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Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a negative mood that may interfere with the aspects of one's life.  It is characterized by feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, loneliness, sadness, hopelessness, self-doubt, and guilt.  Depression is normal everyday; it can last for a few minutes to a few days.  At some periods of time, it might make you feel down or sad, but these feelings are part of being human.  Now, if depression becomes intense and lasts for a while, then a dysfunctional form of depression may be occurring, which is beyond everyday depression.  Should depression reach that level, seek the help of a mental health specialist.

What causes depression?

• Loss of a family member or a friend
  
  

• Loss of control over the environment.
  
  

• Unrealistic expectations
  
  

• Disappointment
  
  

• Perceived failure
  
  

• Negative thinking

Symptoms of depression

Emotional Symptoms:

• Sadness
  
  

• Anxiety
  
  

• Guilt
  
  

• Anger
  
  

• Mood swings
  
  

• Helplessness
  
  

• Hopelessness

Physical Symptoms:

• Sleeping too much or very little
  
  

• Overeating or loss of appetite
  
  

• Constipation
  
  

• Weight loss or gain
  
  

• Irregular menstrual cycle
  
  

• Gradual loss of sexual desire

Behavioral Symptoms:

• Crying for no apparent reason
  
  

• Getting angry easily
  
  

• Unmotivated to accomplish goals
  
  

• Loss of interest in one’s physical appearance
  
  

• Loss of interest in activities
  
  

• Turning to drugs or alcohol

Self-Defeating in Thoughts/Perceptions:

• Feelings of being a failure
  
  

• Criticizing oneself frequently
  
  

• Disappointment
  
  

• Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
  
  

• Blaming oneself for unfortunate happenings
  
  

• Being pessimistic about the future

Treatment: Overcome Depression & Positive Outlook

Depression requires one to seek out a good mental health professional for a correct diagnosis and a treatment plan. Major depression is usually treated with a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressants. Psychotherapy aims to teach patients how to overcome negative attitudes and feelings and to encourage them to return to normal activities. Drug therapy is intended to moderate or correct chemical imbalances that affect one's mood.

Additional Information