Mind Matters - Part 3 - What Is Depressions?

Depression is one of the most common illnesses in our socity today. Statistics reveal that up to one in four females and one in six males will suffer from Depression at some time in their life. Depression is a term used to describe a number of symptons and experiences. Sometimes people start to experience symptoms such as:

Low mood or feeling blue
Low self esteem and a sense of worthlessness or guilt
Difficulty going to work
Loss of interest in things that were once pleasurable
Poor concentration and memory
Sleep disturbances
Loss of appetite or increase in appetite
Lethargy or decrease in energy, loss of motivation
Loss of libido

In more severe cases, thoughts can lead to self harm, suicide or escape from existence. It is important to note that a diagnosis of Depression involves both physical and psychological symptoms. Often Depression may go untreated which could lead to relationship difficulties, difficulties at work, or general feelings of not being able to cope with life. There are many types of Depression, for example:

• Major Depressive Order

Adjustment Disorder and Depressed Mood - This usually relates to an individual who has experienced a major life-changing event such as death of a loved one. The person has difficulty adjusting to the major changes in their life. Substance-Induced Mood Disorder, with Depressive Features - In some cases the use of substances such as alcohol can cause some of the symptoms of Depression, especially in withdrawal.

The degree of symptoms vary greatly with each individual. A diagnosis of Depression can be made by a GP, Psychologist or Psychiatrist. There are many current treatments for Depression which are both safe and effective.

	' MIND MATTERS' by Janet O'Donnell 'Mind Matters' written by Janet, was published in a 4 part series in the 'The Dayboro Grapevine'. Part 3 - What is Depression?- a brief overview
	Depression is one of the most common illnesses in our socity today. Statistics reveal that up to one in four females and one in six males will suffer from Depression at some time in their life. Depression is a term used to describe a number of symptons and experiences. Sometimes people start to experience symptoms such as: Low mood or feeling blue Low self esteem and a sense of worthlessness or guilt Difficulty going to work Loss of interest in things that were once pleasurable Poor concentration and memory Sleep disturbances Loss of appetite or increase in appetite Lethargy or decrease in energy, loss of motivation Loss of libido In more severe cases, thoughts can lead to self harm, suicide or escape from existence. It is important to note that a diagnosis of Depression involves both physical and psychological symptoms. Often Depression may go untreated which could lead to relationship difficulties, difficulties at work, or general feelings of not being able to cope with life. There are many types of Depression, for example: • Major Depressive Order Adjustment Disorder and Depressed Mood - This usually relates to an individual who has experienced a major life-changing event such as death of a loved one. The person has difficulty adjusting to the major changes in their life. Substance-Induced Mood Disorder, with Depressive Features - In some cases the use of substances such as alcohol can cause some of the symptoms of Depression, especially in withdrawal. The degree of symptoms vary greatly with each individual. A diagnosis of Depression can be made by a GP, Psychologist or Psychiatrist. There are many current treatments for Depression which are both safe and effective.