What is Depression?
Depression is a biological illness. It’s more than just the blues; it goes beyond the normal ups and downs in mood we experience as we go through our daily lives. Depression can affect anyone. Young or old. Rich or poor. Although depression can occur at any age, many people have their first episode between the ages of 25 and 44.
There are three types of depression: major depression which occurs in episodes (lasting 6 to 12 months); dysthymia which is similar to major depression, but it lasts longer and the symptoms are more mild; and bipolar disorder (manic depression) which causes mood cycles and people cycle between episodes of major depression and episodes of mania (abnormal “highs”).
Some people are embarrassed to get help for depression. Others believe it will just go away on its own. If you are avoiding treatment, try to remember that depression is like any other serious illness and it needs professional treatment.
National resources:
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance;
American Psychiatric Association;
American Psychological Association;
National Alliance on Mental Illness;