Understanding Depression

Depression is a disease which affects individuals and families all over the world in terrible ways - sometimes, tragically, to the extent where sufferers are lost to suicide. This disorder is one which is still not understood well by the general public, although the medical community has developed a much better understanding of what it is, what causes it and how best to treat it in recent years.

It's important to understand that first and foremost depression is a real disorder, not simply someone being 'down in the dumps.' It is this misconception that sufferers can simply 'get over it' that causes many sufferers to avoid seeking the treatment they desperately need. This is a misconception that needs to be corrected - and thankfully, more people are beginning to be more open-minded about it and more understanding of what its sufferers have to go through.

What many people also don't realise is that there are different types of depression. The disorder we typically associate with the word depression is what is clinically known as 'major depression.' This is distinguished from bipolar depression. Major depression is characterised by consistently low moods, whereas bipolar typically involves rapid changes between low moods and episodes of high-intensity, frenetic behavior. Bipolar depression is also known as manic, because of this flux between depressed and manic states.

So how do you recognise this disorder? It's important to know the signs and symptoms so you can pick up on it not only in others, but in yourself (many people suffering this don't actually consider that they have the disorder. This is partly because some symptoms don't fit with the widespread misconceptions about the disorder.)

In order for a diagnosis of major depression to be made, the low moods need to have been occurring consistently for a long period of time - generally longer than 6 months before medications will be prescribed. It can be triggered by a difficult life event, although often there are other underlying causes which build up to a person becoming depressed.

Aside from the typical 'blue mood,' other symptoms include consistent feelings of hopelessness, loss of self esteem and a feeling that life is pointless. Changes in appetite are common, and sufferers also often find they lose interest in all activities - even activities which they previously enjoyed a great deal. Sleeping problems and a reduction in sex drive are other common indicators to keep an eye out for.

For more help understanding depression, please visit What Is Depression?

Richard Atchison, raised in New Zealand, graduated in 2002 from Auckland High School. A Presidential Scholar, he entered Auckland State University that autumn as an English major, with an emphasis in Literary Studies. Presently, an article contributor for various sites. What Is Depression?