What Is Depression?

Some 15 million Americans struggle with depression?an illness that comes in many forms?from major depression and seasonal affective disorder, to dysthymia and bipolar disorder. Depressive disorder is an illness that involves the body, mood, and thoughts. It interferes with daily life, normal functioning, and causes pain for both the person with the disorder and those who care about him or her.

A depressive disorder is not the same as a passing blue mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away. People with a depressive illness cannot merely “pull themselves together” and get better.

Depression, even the most severe cases, is a highly treatable disorder. As with many illnesses, the earlier that treatment can begin, the more effective it is and the greater the likelihood that recurrence can be prevented.

Understand all about Depression. Read more…

  1. What is Depression?
  2. Symptoms of Depression
  3. Causes of Depression
  4. Treatment of Depression
  5. Depression and Health
  6. Varieties of Depression
  7. Depression and Society
  8. Online Psychotherapy

Find out about Symptoms of Depression. Not everyone who is depressed or manic experiences every symptom. Some people experience a few symptoms, some many. Severity of symptoms varies among individuals and also varies over time. Find out more…