Sometimes, life gets tough. Everyone experiences periods of sadness that pass with time. For some people, however, these feelings aren't just a phase, but depression.
Depression is a real disease, not just a bad mood you can “snap out of.” It affects your mind, body, and life. Many who suffer from depression find it challenging to get out of bed or fulfill work and family obligations.
Depression is a chronic disease and has risk factors just like other chronic diseases. Risk factors include a family history of depression and mental illness, stress or a recent life change, a history of substance abuse, or having other chronic diseases such as cancer or diabetes.
Symptoms of depression
Look at this list and check off any of the symptoms you’ve felt in the last two weeks. If you have felt any of the following symptoms five times or more, you should talk to a doctor about your risk for depression.
- Feeling sad, empty, or tearful. (In children and teens, depression may also occur as constant irritability.)
- Diminished interest in feeling pleasure or participating in activities.
- Significant weight loss when not dieting, weight gain, or change in appetite.
- Insomnia or decreased desire to sleep.