Depression

DEPRESSION **What is it?** Depression is a condition of mental disturbance, typically resulting in a lack of energy and concentration. Depression is a mood and depressive disorder. An estimated 19 million American adults are living with major depression. Depression can negatively affect the way a person thinks and feels, potentially affecting the way one lives his life.

Episodes of depression involve showing five or more symptoms for most of the day -- nearly everyday -- for two weeks or more. There are two different types of symptoms: Emotional and physical. Examples of each include:
 * Symptoms**


 * Emotional**
 * Sadness
 * Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
 * Thoughts of death or suicide
 * Feelings of guilt or worthlessness


 * Physical**
 * Restlessness or slowness of speech, thought, or activity
 * Trouble concentrating or making decisions
 * Lack of energy
 * Changes in weight, appetite, or sleep

Some other symptoms may be associated with depression, but do not always point directly to this particular disorder. These symptoms may include:
 * Aches and pains
 * Tearfulness
 * Constant worry
 * Dwelling on negative thoughts
 * Constantly turning things over in your mind
 * Irritability
 * Anxiety

**Causes**
The causes of depression include:
 * Abuse
 * Certain Medications
 * Conflict
 * Death or a loss
 * Genetics
 * Major Events
 * Other personal problems
 * Serious illnesses
 * Substance abuse

**Public Perception**
Stereotypically, when a person thinks of depression, they will often times picture "goth" or "punk." Stereotypes such as emotional, goth, or punk are actually main causes of teenage depression. Depression doesn't have to be a person dressed in dark clothes, it can be found in any person, anywhere.

**Genetics and Family**
No genetic studies show signs of depression being inherited, or what specific genes are associated with major depression.

**Treatments**
==== The first step in treating depression is talking to your doctor, and telling him how you are feeling. If depression is not treated, it only grows worse. Keep in mind that your doctor is the only one who may diagnose depression. Various treatments include: ==== **Medication** There are several forms of medication specifically for the use of treating depression.

Generally, therapy is to spend time talking with a mental health professional. Therapy can help you learn to manage your depression, helping you relieve your symptoms. Treatment using therapy is liable to continue for weeks, months, years, or even longer, depending on the person and/or situation.
 * Therapy**

Because depression can affect several different areas of your life, a doctor may recommend you make lifestyle changes. This may include exercising or reaching out to family and friends for support.
 * Lifestyle Changes**

If you think you may have depression, or you want to learn more about the disorder, feel free to explore the links below for more information.

lhttp://www.webmd.com/depression/default.htm http://www.cymbalta.com/depression/understandingdepression.jsp

Teen Depression. Michael J. Martin. Pg. 20.