Depression

What is Depression?

Depression, or Depressive disorder, is a mood disorder that affects how people feel, think, and handle activities such as sleeping, eating, or working. Depression can come in different variations, some lasting for at least two years, while others may be caused by childbirth or the changing seasons, or related to ther mental illnesses like Psychotic Depression, or Bipolar disorder.

How likely is it for me to have Depression?

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, as over 19 million US adults have had at least on major depressive episode in the past year. 1 out of 6 adults will experience Depression at some point in their lives.
For more information see the CDC's statistics page on Depression here.

How do I know if I have Depression?

Depressive Disorder for most people has symptoms that last for more than two weeks and can vary depending on the person.
Common Symptoms include:

• Changes in sleep
• Changes in appetite
• Loss of energy
• Lack of concentration
• Inability to enjoy activities with friends
• Hopelessness or Guilty thoughts
• Changes in movement (Less activity or agitation)
• Physical aches and pains
• Suicidal thougts

For more information about Depression symptoms, please see the National Institute for Medical Health's page on Depression here.

Who can I talk to about Depression?

You can talk to your School Counselor, Doctor, or Therapist about Depression if you are feeling down or have any of these symptoms.

What can I do to treat Depression?

Common treatment options include:

• Psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy, family-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy.
• Medications including antidepressants, mood stabilizers and antipsychotic medications.
• Exercise can help with prevention and mild-to-moderate symptoms.
• Brain Stimulation Therapies can be tried if psychotherapy and/or medication are not effective.
• Light therapy, which uses a light box to expose a person to full spectrum light in an effort to regulate the hormone melatonin.
• Alternative approaches including acupuncture, meditation, faith and nutrition can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

For more information, please see the National Institute of Mental Health at here.

I know someone who has depression. What can I do?

If you or someone you know is facing depression, there is help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers free and confidential help to people at the phone number 1-800-273-TALK.

Sources Cited

"NIMH » Depression". Nimh.Nih.Gov, 2021, https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml. Accessed 19 Apr 2021.

“Mental Health Conditions: Depression and Anxiety.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 15 Feb. 2021, www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/depression-anxiety.html.

“FastStats - Depression.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 9 Apr. 2021, www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/depression.htm.

What Is Depression?, www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression.