It also affects the function of many systems in the body. Depression is more than a disorder only from the neck up. A disabling episode of depression may occur only once but more commonly occurs several times in a lifetime. Major depressive disorder, or major depression, is manifested in a persistently sad mood accompanied by a number of other symptoms that interfere with the ability to work, study, sleep, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. However, all forms are marked by variation in the number of symptoms as well as their severity and persistence. Three of the most common types of depressive disorders are described here. Appropriate treatment can help most people who suffer from depression.ĭepressive disorders come in different forms, as is the case with other illnesses such as heart disease. Although symptoms tend to remit spontaneously over time, some form of treatment is important to reduce the likelihood of recurrent episodes. Depression tends to be episodic, with bouts lasting weeks or months. It is not a sign of personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away. It typically causes pain both to the person experiencing the mood disturbance and those who care about him or her.īy definition, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.
It saps motivation and interferes with normal functioning of daily life. Significant adversity early in life, such as separation from parents or parental neglect or abuse, may create vulnerability to major depression later in life by setting the nervous system to over-respond to stress.Ī depressive disorder is a condition that involves the body, mood, and thoughts. Prolonged social stress and major disruption of social ties are known risk factors for depression, and major negative life events such as loss of a loved one, or loss of a job, increase the subsequent risk of depression.
The likelihood that a person will develop depression at some point in life is approximately 10 percent. According to the National Institutes of Health, each year more than 16 million adults in the United States experience at least one episode of major depression. It can be treated with psychotherapy or medication, or a combination of both.ĭepression is a common condition in modern life. Despite feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, depression is a treatable condition. It alters the structure and function of nerve cells so that it disrupts the way the brain processes information and interprets experience. It not only darkens one's outlook, but it is also commonly marked by sleep problems and changes in energy levels and appetite. Depression is not a passing blue mood, which almost everyone experiences from time to time, but a complex mind-body illness that interferes with everyday functioning.
Depressive disorders are characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and worthlessness and a lack of desire to engage in formerly pleasurable activities.
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