Clinical DepressionDepression is a medical illness just like cancer or diabetes. It is not just feeling "blue". Sadness or feeling "blue" are normal feelings that eventually pass. Feelings associated with depression last longer than a couple of weeks. If someone has depression, they can't talk themselves out of it. it is not due to weakness or a character flaw. It isn't
some one's fault. Depression affects the whole body - feelings, thought, physical health, behavior, appearance and all areas of a person's life. Home, work, social life, school are all affected. Depression can be treated successfully for most people just like other illness.
Causes of DepressionDepression is triggered by a complex combination of genetic, psychological and environmental factors. Genetic means that in some families, depression is inherited - through genes. Psychological makeup refers to personality traits ans environmental factors means life circumstances. The brain is an organ of the body, just as are the heart, liver, kidneys, etc. If the chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters) regulating how people think, act and feel, get out of balance, illness results in the brain and the result can be depression. Bad or stressful life events can trigger depression. Sometimes, it occurs unexpectedly, when everything is going just fine and there is no reason to get depression. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of.
Who Gets DepressionAnyone can get depression. Depression occurs in people of all ages, ethnic and economic groups, and race. Males and females - children and adults can get
depression. More than 19 million people living in the United States are affected by depression every year.
Recognition of DepressionBecause depression affects thinking, often people do not recognize that they have a treatable illness. They may not be able to think clearly or rationally or believe they can't be helped. Severe depression can cause thoughts of
hopelessness and helplessness. The number one cause of
suicide is untreated depression. Early recognition and treatment of depression can save lives.
TreatmentIn 90% or more people, a combination of antidepressant medications and therapy works to treat depression. There is help. A person can feel good again!!
Possible Symptoms of DepressionBelow are several common
symptoms of depression . there can be other causes for these
symptoms too, so it is
important to discuss them with your doctor.
- Increase aches and pains
- Irritable
- Feelings of sadness
- Crying easily or more frequently
- Sleep disturbance - unable to sleep or sleeps too much
- Loss or increase in appetite
- Weight loss or gain
- Tiredness or fatigue most of the time
- Difficulty enjoying things - loss of pleasure
- Difficulty concentration
- Discouraged/hopelessness
- Self-Dislike
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Loss of energy
- Indecisiveness
- Isolation from family/friends
- Loss of interest
- Suicidal thoughts or wishes
- Decreased sex drive
Signs To Watch For - Suicidal Behavior- Deepening depression
- Final arrangements
- Suddenly elevated mood
- Risk taking or self destructive behavior
- Presuicidal statements
If an individual will not allow you to take them to a clinic, hospital or crisis center, it is not a breach of confidentiality for you to report them to a therapist, MD, police, etc. Be
persistent. Do not trust that they will get help on their own. Do not leave them alone if the crisis is acute.
Danielle and Kevin 1996 SPHS Snow Week 
