WHAT IS DEPRESSION?

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) defines depression (major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.

There are several different types of anxiety disorders. Examples include Persistent depressive disorder, Postpartum depression, Psychotic depression, Seasonal affective disorder, and Bipolar disorder.

300 million people around the world have depression.
6.2 million adults in the US have experienced a major depressive episode in the past year.
50% of all people diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.

SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION

Not everyone who is depressed experiences every symptom. Some people experience only a few symptoms while others may experience many. If you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression:

SYMPTOMS

Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism
Irritability
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
Decreased energy or fatigue
Moving or talking more slowly
Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
Appetite and/or weight changes
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment