Story of depression
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious
medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how
you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable. Depression causes feelings of
sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. It can lead to a
variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability
to function at work and at home.
Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include,
feeling sad or having a depressed mood. Loss of interest or pleasure in
activities once enjoyed. Changes in appetite (weight loss or gain unrelated to
dieting). Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much. Loss of energy or increased
fatigue. Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., hand-wringing or
pacing) or slowed movements and speech (actions observable by others). Feeling
worthless or guilty. Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions.
Lastly, thoughts of death or suicide
Symptoms must last at least two weeks for a diagnosis of
depression. Also, medical conditions (e.g., thyroid problems, a brain tumor or
vitamin deficiency) can mimic symptoms of depression so it is important to rule
out general medical causes.
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