What is Depression

Posted by Keelie on May 26th, 2021

Sadness is a normal emotion we all experience. Even certain situations create feelings of sadness to linger for a period of time. Depression occurs when these emotions do not seem to go away. Depression may cause a variety of symptoms. 

What is Depression?

It is a mental health disorder. It consists of lingering feelings of sadness and withdrawal. Things that used to bring you happiness and joy no longer do. Depression produces an array of symptoms. If left untreated it could potentially change the brain and the way the body functions. 

What Are The Symptoms of Depression?

Some experience high highs and low lows while others want to sleep all day. These symptoms also range in levels of severity. Below are some common symptoms:

  • Sadness

  • Fatigue

  • Changes in weight

  • Withdrawal

  • Anxiety 

  • Anger

  • New eating habits 

  • Panic

  • Loss of interest 

  • Feelings of hopelessness

  • Changes in sleep

  • Difficulty concentrating 

  • Mood swings 

  • Feeling like you do not matter

  • Obsessiveness 

  • Loss of Memory

  • Suicidal thoughts 

Types of Depression?

If you find yourself experiencing any of these systems it’s important to talk to your medical provider. They may refer you to a specialist or psychologist. Your doctor may take a blood panel to rule out other health concerns. The referred physician will likely perform a mental health assessment or psychological testing. 

After meeting several criteria, people may receive a depression diagnosis. There are many different types. Depending on the symptoms they experience, patients may receive a specific depression diagnosis like mentioned below:

  • Major Depressive Disorder

  • Bipolar Disorder

  • Seasonal Affective Disorder

  • Persistent Depressive Disorder

  • Postpartum Depression

  • Depressive Psychosis

  • Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

  • Situational Depression

  • Atypical Depression

What Causes Depression?

The potential causes are as numerous as the different types. One may experience lingering feelings of sadness after a death of a loved one or a tragic event. Some people suffer from chemical imbalances within the body. This imbalance whether it be hormonal or neurological can cause many symptoms to appear.

Common Misconceptions About Depression? 

After receiving a depression diagnosis, many of us wonder if we will ever feel normal again. For most people, the illness is a feeling that comes and goes and for others, it seems more life-long or chronic. People often live very normal lives. Utilizing therapy or medication to help treat symptoms is very common. 

Who Is Most At Risk?

This common illness affects over 264 million people on Earth. It does not discriminate against any man, woman, or child. It is more commonly diagnosed in women but men and children suffer from various forms of the illness as well. People who have autoimmune conditions are more likely to also have mental health illness. Anytime one transitions from different life phases they may experience depression. Teenagers, pregnant, postpartum women, and menopausal women may have depression caused by hormonal shifts. It runs in families. If you have a family member with mental health illness you are at a higher risk of also developing depression.   

 

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Keelie

About the Author

Keelie
Joined: May 29th, 2020
Articles Posted: 24

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