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Signs and Symptoms of Depression
Depression comes in different forms and affects many people differently. Some common signs include:
- A sense of being sad or "blue"
- Wanting to be alone
- Persistent irritability
- Difficulty and even avoiding making decisions
- Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping (not wanting to get out of bed)
- Changes in appetite, either increased or decreased food intake.
- Decreased libido
- Anhedonia (inability to enjoy doing the things that are normally enjoyable)
Where Does Depression Come From?
Common depression is known to have many possible causes, including hereditary factors, significant personal losses, and even lack of exposure to sunlight.Most often, though, it results from life circumstances that overwhelm a person's ability to effectively cope with normal, day-to-day events, such as decision-making. The loss of a loved one, losing a job, a severe illness, the breakup of an important relationship, financial loss or debt, can each, or in combination, contribute to the development of depression.Certain physical conditions, such as thyroid problems can also cause symptoms that are very similar to depression, as can deficiencies of certain nutritional substances.Even loneliness can cause depression. All-in-all, depression has numerous causes and can be hard to cure.
Can Anyone Suffer From Depression?
Anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status, can suffer from depression. It is estimated that 20 million Americans suffer from depression every year. Depression is not a weakness or a character flaw-it is a real medical illness. But the good news is that with proper treatment, most patients will improve.
People who have depression are not just moody or having "the blues" for a few days. They have long periods of feeling very sad and lose interest in social and daily activities. Depression changes the way a person feels, thinks, and behaves.
The causes of depression are not always clear. It may be caused by an event or for no apparent reason at all. Genes may also play a role in not providing your brain with enough serotonin. The symptoms of depression may differ from person to person. Some symptoms may include a persistent sad mood, lack of pleasure in activities, change in sleep or eating habits, or a feeling of worthlessness.
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