Depression Is An Illness

Most people get depressed from time to time, so should depression be considered an illness? YES...clinical depression is an illness. It has been stated that about one out of eight United States citizens will likely get clinically depressed in their lifetime. Some experience it once in their lifetime, others will have numerous episodes. The reality is if an individual gets depressed for the initial time, there's a 50 percent likelihood that depression will occur again and there is even a higher likelihood of a third occurrence. Depression is a real illness as it effects the mental, emotional and physical faculties. It really is not just a transient sad feeling that could go away when one wills it. There will be signs and symptoms of depression. If not handled appropriately and instantly, the condition could escalate. Seek out professional treatment. Like any other illness, there are different types of depression. There are three types of depression: major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and dysthymic disorder. Major depression is really a culmination of all the signs and symptoms that interfere with one's ability to act normal. It may come about once, but recurring episodes are normal.

Its less extreme counterpart is dysthymia which is characterized by exactly the same symptoms of major depression, only they do not completely interfere with one's activities. It is possible for an individual who has dysthymic disorder, to suffer major depression sometime in the course of his life.

Bipolar disorder involves drastic moodiness, from being quite high one minute to severely depressed the next minute. The manic cycle could make the particular person hyper and overenthusiastic but it subsides as quickly because the depressed cycle hits. The depressed cycle encompasses all the symptoms of depression.

You can experience the following symptoms for Depression:

1. Prominent fatigue

2. Unbelievable hopelessness

3. Feeling guilty and worthless all the time

4. Lack or loss of interests in activities that use to bring joy to the patient and this includes sex.

5. Persistent "empty" feeling

6. Features a complicated time making decisions

7. Problems sleeping

8. Loss of appetite and drastic weight gain or loss

9. Moodiness

10. Pronounced irritability

11. Physical aches and pains which have no physiological basis 12. Suicidal attempts and thoughts Depression is an illness. Don't let depression control your life. Treatment is available in the form of psychotherapy, antidepressant medicine and a combination of the two.

Depending on the individual there are times when electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and light therapy can be used. Every individual is unique so some forms of therapy will work better than others. Find what works best for you and stick to it. Don't lose faith. There is a way to get you life back and under control!

Dean Vinson is a life coach who teaches people how to overcome panic attacks and anxiety through his experience and review of the End Your Depression program.

Download his Free Tips to Treat Depression report on his website.