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Depression is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have difficulty doing normal daily activities, and sometimes you may feel as though life isn't worth living.


Depression is more than just a bout of a bad mood, it's not a weakness and you can't simply "get out" of it. Depression may require long-term treatment. But you should not be discouraged. Most people with depression improve with medication, psychotherapy, or both.

symptoms

Although depression may occur only once in a lifetime, people often experience multiple episodes of depression. During these episodes, symptoms occur most of the day, almost every day, and may include:

  1. Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, or hopelessness
  2. Outbursts of anger, irritability or frustration over even minor matters
  3. Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sexual intercourse, hobbies or sports
  4. Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
  5. Fatigue and lack of energy, even small tasks take more effort
  6. Loss of appetite and weight loss, or cravings for food and weight gain
  7. restlessness, agitation, or restlessness;
  8. Slowed thinking, speaking, or body movements
  9. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, focusing on past failures or self-blame
  10. You have trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions, and remembering things
  11. Recurring or persistent thoughts of death, thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts, or suicide
  12. Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches

For many people with depression, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems with daily activities, such as work, school, social activities, or relationships with others. Some people may feel miserable and generally unhappy without knowing why.

Symptoms of depression in children and adolescents

Common signs and symptoms of depression in children and teens are similar to those in adults, but there may be some differences.

In younger children, symptoms of depression can include sadness, irritability, excessive emotional attachment, anxiety, aches and pains, refusal to go to school, or thinness.

In adolescents, symptoms can include sadness, irritability, feelings of negativity and worthlessness, anger, poor school performance or attendance, feeling misunderstood and overly sensitive, use of recreational drugs or alcohol, overeating and sleeping, self-harm, and loss of interest in activities. Natural, avoiding social interaction.

Symptoms of depression in the elderly

Depression is not a normal part of aging, and it should never be taken lightly. Unfortunately, depression is often not diagnosed and treated in older adults, and they may feel resistant to seeking help. Symptoms of depression can be different or less noticeable in older people, such as:

  • Memory problems or personality changes
  • Physical pain or soreness
  • Wanting to stay home more often than go out to socialize with others or do new things
  • Suicidal feelings or thoughts, particularly in the elderly

When do you see a doctor?

If you feel depressed, make an appointment to see your doctor or mental health professional as soon as possible. If you are reluctant to seek treatment, refer to a friend, loved one, health care professional, clergy, or other person you trust.

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