"To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified." Isaiah 61:3
WHAT IS DEPRESSION?
Depression is a serious medical condition that affects thoughts, feelings, and the ability to function in everyday life. In contrast to the normal emotional experiences of sadness, loss, or passing mood states, clinical depression is persistent and can interfere significantly with a person's ability to function. Depression can occur at any age.
Three main types of depressive disorder exist:
1. Major depression is manifested by a combination of symptoms that interfere with the ability to work, study, sleep, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. Such a disabling episode of depression may occur only once but more commonly occurs several times in a lifetime.
2. Dysthymia is a less severe type of depression that involves chronic symptoms that do not cause disability but can hinder a person from functioning well or from feeling good. Many persons with dysthymia also experience major depressive episodes at some time in their lives.
3. Bipolar disorder is a third type of depressive disorder and is less prevalent than other types of depression. It is characterized by cycling mood changes: severe highs, or mania, and lows, or depression. At times, the mood switches are dramatic and rapid, but they usually occur gradually. When in the depressed cycle, a person can have any or all of the symptoms of a depressive disorder. When in the manic cycle, a person may be overactive and over-talkative and may have a great deal of energy. Mania often affects thinking, judgment, and social behavior in ways that cause serious problems and embarrassment. For example, a person in a manic phase may feel elated and full of grand schemes that can range from unwise business decisions to romantic sprees. Mania, left untreated, may worsen to a psychotic state.Symptoms:
Not all persons who are depressed will experience every symptom. Severity of symptoms varies with individuals and also varies over time. The following are some of the symptoms of depression:
Diagnosis:
A diagnosis can only be determined by a medical profession. Please see your doctor.
Article by MD Consult on Depression
This site does not provide medical or any other health care advice, diagnosis or treatment
Three main types of depressive disorder exist:
1. Major depression is manifested by a combination of symptoms that interfere with the ability to work, study, sleep, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. Such a disabling episode of depression may occur only once but more commonly occurs several times in a lifetime.
2. Dysthymia is a less severe type of depression that involves chronic symptoms that do not cause disability but can hinder a person from functioning well or from feeling good. Many persons with dysthymia also experience major depressive episodes at some time in their lives.
3. Bipolar disorder is a third type of depressive disorder and is less prevalent than other types of depression. It is characterized by cycling mood changes: severe highs, or mania, and lows, or depression. At times, the mood switches are dramatic and rapid, but they usually occur gradually. When in the depressed cycle, a person can have any or all of the symptoms of a depressive disorder. When in the manic cycle, a person may be overactive and over-talkative and may have a great deal of energy. Mania often affects thinking, judgment, and social behavior in ways that cause serious problems and embarrassment. For example, a person in a manic phase may feel elated and full of grand schemes that can range from unwise business decisions to romantic sprees. Mania, left untreated, may worsen to a psychotic state.Symptoms:
Not all persons who are depressed will experience every symptom. Severity of symptoms varies with individuals and also varies over time. The following are some of the symptoms of depression:
- persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood;
- feelings of hopelessness and pessimism;
- feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness;
- loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex;
- decreased energy and fatigue;
- nervousness or sluggishness;
- difficulty concentrating, remembering, and making decisions;
- insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping;
- appetite and/or weight loss, or overeating and weight gain;
- thoughts of death or suicide;
- suicide attempts;
- restlessness and irritability; and
- persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain.
Diagnosis:
A diagnosis can only be determined by a medical profession. Please see your doctor.
Article by MD Consult on Depression
This site does not provide medical or any other health care advice, diagnosis or treatment
