FACTS: Depression affects individuals, regardless of socio-economic, ethnic, age, or gender differences.  So many people have experienced depression that it is known as the "common cold" of mental illness.  Through the twentieth century, the number of those with Depression rose at a steady rate.  One eighth of all men and one fourth of all women can expect to have at least one episode of depression in a lifetime.  During their teens, 3 - 5% of adolescents will have at least one episode of major depression.  If treated, 80 - 90% of people with clinical depression can be helped through therapy and medication.

CLINICAL DEPRESSION: this is a mental illness causing changes in mood, thoughts, perceptions, and behaviors.  Clinical depression can last for months or years if not treated and can be a disruptor of relationships and productivity.  Scientists have found a new theological explanation for depression.  There are neurotransmitters known as norepienephrine, serotonin, and dopimine found in the brain.  Their function is to carry electrical signals between brain cells that control mood and body systems.  These body systems control sleep, activity, and appetite.  It is believed that in depression, they may not work in the usual way.

CLINICAL DEPRESSION vs "THE BLUES: having "the blues" is a normal reaction to a life situation, such as a loss.  It is usually manifested by a single symptom (a sad mood) and duration of the acute phase is brief.  It rarely produces suicidal thoughts and responds to a good listener and time to heal.  Clinical depression is a persistent illness, having multiple symptoms.  It can result in suicide, but if treated, will respond to medications in psychotherapy.

SYMPTOMS: clinical depression may affect feelings, behavior/attitude, and physical condition.  Depressed individuals may describe these changes in feelings:

The individual may experience:

Physically, an individual may have:

CAUSES OF DEPRESSION: No depression can appear spontaneously without apparent cause, there are some factors, which contribute to the onset of the illness.  Having a family history of depression increases the likelihood of having the disease. Episodes of depression may be triggered by major life events, such as losses (death of a loved one), and changes (adjusting to divorce).  Chronic stress, alcohol/drug abuse, physical illnesses, and side effects of medications may also trigger an episode of depression.

PREDISPOSITION: there may be a susceptibility factor inherent in acquiring the disease.  Some individuals may be more prone to depression due to their physiological logical make-up.  Lonely, isolated individuals with no family support are vulnerable candidates for depression.  People with low self-esteem, who consistently view the world with pessimism and themselves as helpless and lacking in social skills are included.  Those who have many negative life stressors, difficulty problem-solving and fixed thinking patterns, and belief systems are also susceptible.

TYPES OF MOOD DISORDERS: Major depression has already been described, using the term "clinical depression".  Dysthymia is a less severe type of depression.  It involves long-term chronic symptoms that are not as disabling as major depression, but do prevent a person from fully functioning or feeling good.  In bipolar (manic-depressive) disorders, individuals have both cycles of election (mania) and depression.  Seasonal affective disorder affects people during the fall-winter season when sunlight is less available.  Post-partum depression may occur for women after the birth of a baby.

TREATMENT FOR DEPRESSION: there are two common treatments for depression: medications and psychotherapy.  Psychotherapy consists of interpersonal therapy and cognitive/behavioral therapy.  Some individuals may benefit from only one form of treatment; others may need both forms to prevent relapse.  Light therapy may be used for seasonal depressive disorder and E.C.T., prescribed by the doctor in specific instances.

MEDICATIONS: anti-depressants are usually used to treat depression.  They are not addictive.  These four groups of medications are:

Common side effects noted when taking these medications include:

Side effects tend to diminish over time, but it's important for the doctor to know all side effects and all symptoms.  In symptoms of the illness include anxiety, mania, or confusion, different medications may be needed.  Medications may take a few weeks before being effective.  Changes in dosages or types of meds may be required.  Therefore it is good for the doctor to continue monitoring medications after discharge from the hospital.

COGNITIVE/BEHAVIORAL THERAPY: depressed individuals are encouraged to gain insight into their issues and then make positive changes by taking action.  They are encouraged to:

The following therapeutic groups address these issues: self-awareness, expressive art, assertiveness training, relationships, life management, stress management, group therapy, etc.

SELF-HELP: In a depressive episode, individuals can do the following to help themselves: Set a few goals to focus on, but do not overload yourself.  Break down tasks into small steps.  Decrease responsibilities and set your own priorities.  Be with other people and talk about problems.  Do activities that make you feel good.  Mild exercises and participation in social and religious activities is beneficial.  It's important not to expect too much of yourself too soon.  Will