According to “The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,” major depression is characterized by depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure and at least four other symptoms. These may include problems with self-image, sleep, energy, ability to function, and changes in appetite.
Friday, January 15, 2016
Special health section - Exploring depression
Nearly everyone has dealt with a life-changing event that brings about
feelings of sadness. But some people struggle to enjoy normally happy
situations. When these feelings do not go away on their own, they may indicate
the presence of depression.
Major depression is one of the world’s most common mental disorders. The
World Health Organization offers that major depression also carries the
heaviest burden of disability among mental and behavioral disorders. People
often do not realize they’re suffering from a depressive episode, and as a
result, many never seek or receive the care they need.
According to “The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,” major depression is characterized by depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure and at least four other symptoms. These may include problems with self-image, sleep, energy, ability to function, and changes in appetite.
The National Institute of Mental Health says that, as of 2013, an
estimated 15.7 million adults aged 18 or older in the United States had at
least one major depressive episode in the past year. Depression is far-reaching
and more common than one may imagine. Oftentimes, however, people delay seeking
treatment because of embarrassment or the stigma that surrounds a mental
illness diagnosis.
The NIMH indicates that women are 70 percent more likely than men to
experience depression during the course of their lifetimes, largely due to
hormones. Elevated rates of depression among women also may be due to the fact
that they tend to be more vocal and proactive in seeking help.
Depression can be linked to any number of factors. Depression may result
from a particularly traumatic episode in one’s life and often accompanies
post-traumatic stress disorder. Individuals can become depressed when diagnosed
with a disease. Women may experience post-partum depression after childbirth. A
considerable percentage of people experience depression when seasons change,
and that could be caused by the reduction of exposure to natural sunlight when
fall gives way to winter. Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is often more
common the farther north one lives.
Depression can affect one’s home and work life. Studies have shown that
major depression doubled a person’s chance of becoming divorced or separated.
Others may face job loss thanks to lack of productivity or missed days.
Depression can be a devastating illness that seemingly comes out of the
blue. However, it’s important for people to realize that depression is common
and treatment methods are quite effective. Consult with a professional if you
believe you are experiencing depression.
According to “The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,” major depression is characterized by depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure and at least four other symptoms. These may include problems with self-image, sleep, energy, ability to function, and changes in appetite.
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