All of us experience occasional feelings of sadness or "the blues." However, when these feelings become overwhelming and begin to interfere with a person's ability to function it becomes depression. Depression is a very common disorder which affects about 5% of the population at any given time. Researchers believe that between 10% and 25% of Americans will experience a major depression at some time in their lives. Depression is often described as mild, moderate or severe depending on the level of disruption it causes in the person's life.

Symptoms of Depression:
Depressed mood, feeling "down" to feeling suicidal.

Lack of interest in formerly pleasurable activities.

Dissatisfaction with life, including feelings of being useless, hopeless and helpless.

A slowing down or neglect in performing daily activities.

Loss of energy.

Feelings of irritability, worry or sadness.

Physical changes such as loss of appetite or weight, fatigue, insomnia, unexplained health problems.

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

Withdrawal from social activities.

A loss of sexual desire or loss of warm feelings toward family members.

Substance abuse.

While everyone may experience one or more of these symptoms from time to time, it is important to seek professional help when these symptoms persist or begin to interfere with daily functioning.

Causes of Depression:
Depression is nearly always caused by a combination of factors. It may be triggered by a stressful life event such as loss of a job or important relationship. There may be a genetic factor. People without close relatives with depression have only a 2% to 3% chance of developing depression while children, parents or siblings of a depressed person have a 15% chance of developing depression themselves. Many experts believe that depression may be caused by an imbalance or disruption in the level of certain brain chemicals. Certain medical illnesses and medications may increase the risk of developing depression. Use of alcohol is a well known contributing factor.

Treatment:
The severity of the depression will impact the choices made about treatment. Studies show that early treatment can reduce the severity and duration of depressive episodes for most people. Counseling or psychotherapy can be very helpful for some depressed people. In fact, for people suffering from mild depression, counseling may be the only treatment needed. Antidepressant medications can be helpful to those persons whose depression is influenced by a chemical imbalance. Electroconvulsive therapy can be helpful in cases of severe depression.