Depresssion

STATSTICS

 

Depression is a very common serious medical illness. Almost anybody can develop the illness.  People who have experienced an episode of depression are at risk of developing another in the future.  There are no particular 'personality types' that are more at risk than others.

 

In any six-month period 340 million people in the world suffer from this disease. One in four women and one in 10 men can expect to develop it during their lifetime. No one is immune from depression - it occurs in people of all social classes, all countries and all cultural settings.

 

Sadness at the loss of a loved one or over a divorce is normal, but these losses can also be the trigger for a depressive episode.  In fact, most major environmental changes can trigger depression. Job loss or promotions, moves to new areas, changes in living space--all can bring on depressive illness. New mothers sometimes suffer with Post-natal Depression. Birth brings dramatic changes to both their environments and bodies; a combination that can trigger a downward swing in mood.

 

 

Symptoms include: 

• Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood

• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed

A variety of treatments including medications and short-term psychotherapies have proven effective for depression.  Eighty to 90 percent of those who suffer from depression can be effectively treated, and nearly all people who receive treatment derive some benefit.

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