YMIF - Your Mind Is First!

What is depression?

Depression is a disorder that is evidenced by excessive sadness, loss of interest in enjoyable things, and low motivation.

It is normal to experience feelings of sadness and despair in response to adverse life events. Such events could include loss, major life changes, stress, or disappointment. In most cases, the sad feelings resolve as you come to terms with the changes in your life. In situations such as bereavement, these feelings may persist for months and return at significant times, such as birthdays and anniversaries related to the lost loved one. Provided you have times when you can enjoy things, however, this sadness is not a sign of depression.

How can I identify it?

Physical Symptoms:

Loss of appetite with excessive change in weight.
Loss of interest in sex.
Loss of energy, even when not physically active.
Loss of sleep despite feeling exhausted, or.
Sleeping too much or more than usual.
Slowed activity and speech.

Psychological Symptoms:

Feeling miserable for weeks on end.
Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities.
Slowed or inefficient thinking with poor concentration.
Difficulties making decisions or solving problems.
Recurring guilt and self-critical thoughts.
Thoughts of self-harm or being better off dead.

Causes:

No one knows exactly what causes depression. It is clear that genetic factors are important in many cases of depression. Depression seems to run in families (as do other mood disorders), and about 30% of the predisposition for depression is due to genetic influences. Stressful life events play a part in the onset or relapse of depression. Ongoing conflicts with others can take their toll on our well-being, as can other social and environmental stressors such as financial difficulties, retirement, unemployment, childbirth, loneliness, or loss of someone or something important. In vulnerable people, these unpleasant life events may be enough to cause or worsen a depressive illness.