There is a difference between feeling sad and depression. We all have days when we “have the blues”. There are events in life , such as a death in the family, when we feel grief and lose. A diagnosis of Depression is different. It interferes in your daily life and can cause problems with those around you. The individual symptoms vary in frequency and severity. Generally the individual experiences several symptoms for more than two weeks.
Some of the more common symptoms of Depression are :
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable,
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Having a hard time concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
- Unable to sleep or sleeping a lot more than usual
- Overeating or appetite loss
- Thoughts of suicide and/or suicide attempts
- Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
Statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health Major state that depressive disorder is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. Each year about 6.7% of U.S adults experience major depressive disorder. Women are 70% more likely than men to experience depression during their lifetime. The average age of the first event is 32 years old.
Depressive disorders are treatable, unfortunately; many individuals never seek treatment. Many individuals improve with medications, psychotherapies, and other treatment methods.