- A U.S. government survey in 2004 indicated that 8 percent of adults, or 17.1 million, reported at least one episode of depression in the previous 12 months. Depression affects both men and women and people of all ages, races and socioeconomic status.
- Some of the major symptoms of depression include feelings of sadness, anxiety, low self-esteem and low self-worth. Depressed people often lose interest in their usual activities and feel hopeless about life. Physical symptoms can include insomnia, weight lose due to decreased appetite and fatigue. In extreme cases, suicidal thoughts might also occur.
- Depression is known to have a biological basis in many cases that is attributed to brain chemicals known as monoamines, including dopamine and serotonin. One of the functions of these chemicals is to regulate mood. They are often found to be lower in people suffering from depression.
- Treatment options for depression includes psychotherapy, psychiatric drugs that regulate brain chemicals, exercise and natural remedies such as meditation and relaxation. The type of treatment depends on the type and severity of depression.
- Feelings of sadness, grief and hopelessness can be normal reactions to things like stress, divorce or the death of a loved one. These feelings may develop into depression when they become chronic and more severe and can be a challenge to overcome without professional help.
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