Depression

All of us experience in our lives occasionally, whether it is the loss of a job, a serious illness, the death of a loved one, or any number of reasons.  Generally, we are able to adjust and return to our normal daily routines.  There are other times, however, when feelings of depression seem overwhelming and continue in intensity.  In other cases, the feelings fluctuate from level of happiness to another level of dissatisfaction at intervals over extended periods of time.  Extended periods of sadness are sometimes indicative of a greater cause than personal circumstances.  In these times, researching and talking to a psychologist is important to identify if you are possibly suffering from depression.

Recognizing when depression is more than the passing blues or sadness is important in order to ensure you receive treatment for more serious clinical depression.  In fact, clinical depression is not uncommon.  Actually, statistics venture to say over ten percent of the adult population suffers from clinical depression at one point during the course of their lives.

The symptoms of all forms of depression vary, but there are some telltale markers that might suggest it is best you or your suffering loved one speak to a psychologist.  A chronic empty or despondent mood, hopelessness, irritability and restlessness, and lack of pleasure in hobbies and favored activities are all symptoms of something more serious than a simple “bad day.”

There are three common types of depressive disorder.  Major depressive disorder is marked by a combination of symptoms which can interfere with a person’s ability to manage work, study, eat, sleep, or to enjoy activities once considered pleasurable. A less severe type is Dysthymia, which keeps one from being able to function normal or from feeling good.  This disorder tends to go untreated and ignored by many individuals over long periods of time.  This failure to respond to their feelings leads some individuals to delve much deeper into more severe forms of depression and other mental health problems.  The third is Bipolar Disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness.  Bipolar Disorder is when mood changes cycle between severe highs (mania) and lows (depressed feelings.)  Most often, these mood changes are gradual, but sometimes can be dramatic and rapid.  In any case, all of the above types of depression stifle individual ability to lead the lives they desire.  Speaking to a psychologist can reverse the tide of these blue moods and pain today.

Depression can be debilitating, but help is available.  If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, contact a professional psychologist today.

Read more on other mental health topics such as: Drug Abuse, Anorexia, Alzheimers, and Bipolar Disorder