Depression, Blue, Bummed Out
Symptoms & Signs:
Depression is an illness that affects the body, mood, and thoughts. About twice as many women suffer from depression as men. People who are depressed may feel hopeless, worthless, very sad, and have no energy or interest in doing anything. Some people describe depression as an "empty, or sad feeling that won't go away." This kind of depression that does not go away is called "clinical depression." It is different from feeling "blue" or down for a few hours or a couple of days.
What causes depression?
Many things cause depression. Depression can run in families. Changes in your brain chemistry and living through painful and difficult events in your life can cause depression. Sometimes depression is caused by certain medications people take for cancer, arthritis, heart problems, and high blood pressure. Some illnesses such as Parkinson's disease, stroke, and hormonal problems can cause depression.
What are the signs of depression?
Here is a list of the most common signs of depression. If you have some of these signs that last for more than two weeks, see your health care provider.
Feeling empty, sad, and anxious
Feeling tired, having no energy
Feeling restless and irritable a lot of the time
Crying more than usual
Feeling worthless, helpless, hopeless, and guilty
Having no interest or joy in life
Having trouble sleeping, waking up very early in the morning
Having problems eating too much or too little food
Thinking about suicide and death
Having trouble concentrating, remembering, and making decisions
Having physical problems that don't go away when you take medicine, such as headaches, stomach problems, and pains in your body
Content Courtesy : www.4woman.gov
^{Note : Information herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider before beginning any course of supplementation or treatment.}