SIGNS OF DEPRESSION

Depression is a common medical illness that afflicts nearly 12 million American men and women of all ages, races, and socio-economic classes.  It is a disorder of mood that attacks a person’s mind and body at the same time.  Depression can last for months or years if left untreated.  However, in most people, it can be treated successfully either with antidepressant medication or psychotherapy.  In most cases, a combination of the two has the best results.

Depression can be triggered by life experiences, excessive stress, consequences of a medical illness or genetics.  It is believed that depression is associated with an imbalance of chemicals in the brain that control mood.

If you or someone you know experience a combination of the following symptoms and they last for two or more weeks, a diagnosis of depression is possible.  Please see your doctor for proper medical treatment.

• Lack of interest or pleasure in activities
• Lack of concentration and indecisiveness
• Unexplainable physical pain (headache, backache)
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Significant change in appetite
• Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide

It is important to remember that depression is not a personal weakness and will not go away without medical treatment.