What is Depression?

Depression is fairly common – artists, writers, musicians, scientists, and world leaders have suffered from depression throughout history. It can be severely debilitating, and still remains somewhat of a paradox. While a diagnosis of “major depressive disorder” may be given to a person experiencing specific symptoms by a mental health professional, there are also less severe forms of depression.

Have you been:

Feeling sad or low most of the day, nearly every day?

Losing interest in things you used to enjoy or losing motivation to do things?

Feeling like your attitude has changed toward your life, that it seems less meaningful?

Having unexplained physical changes, like insomnia, changes in appetite, or fatigue?

Experiencing an increased sense of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt?

Having difficulty concentrating or making decisions?

Whether you have been feeling like this for a very long time, have felt this way intermittently, or have noticed these kinds of feelings only recently, you may be experiencing depression. Depression is a common term, one often used to describe a mood or state of mind. “I’m depressed” can range from slight to moderate feelings of “being down”, to severe withdrawal from the world.

Treatment for depression and mood disorders can help you:

• Learn triggers to sadness.
• Develop positive coping skills.
• Recognize negative thinking patterns.
• Build self-esteem.
• Strengthen family communication.