Depression is something that affects millions of people in America and many more around the world. Having a disorder like this can be devastating to the person who has it and to those close to them.
There are many types of depression, each with its own symptoms. If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, here are some tips for identifying it and understanding its causes and effects.
In the United States alone, one in four people suffers from depression. This number can be higher, depending on which parts of the country you live in.
There are many symptoms associated with depression, so there is no single definition for all of them. That said, there are some telltale signs of depression that will alert you to the problem.
One common symptom of depression is mood swings. These changes in mood are often characterized by irritability, sad thoughts, loss of energy, and even suicidal thoughts. These mood swings can be extremely worrisome to someone who is suffering from depression.
There are many types of depression, and they can differ widely in their severity. Some common types include:
Major depression – Major depression is the most severe type of depression and usually lasts a lifetime. This type of depression can also have an effect on the functioning of the person’s body, and it will typically cause a range of symptoms, including an increase in appetite, decreased interest in things you used to enjoy, and a desire to withdraw from social interaction. You may feel irritable, tearful, and down about the world.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – This type of depression is also known as winter blues. SAD will usually cause many of the same symptoms as major depression, but it is not as severe and can last from several months to several years.
Bipolar Disorder – Depression can be caused by many things, and one of them is a change in a person’s mood or personality that is triggered by certain stressors. Bipolar disorder is when a person becomes very happy or sad or can even experience mania or depression.
Childhood Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – ADHD is also known as hyperactivity disorder. A lot of people with ADHD will also suffer from depression, especially if the symptoms become too severe.
The good news is that treatment is available. There are many medications that can help treat depression and the symptoms of this condition.
