When you're suffering from depression, you can feel powerless to change your life. However, there's no need to give up hope. Get the information you need to understand your condition and start treatment.
About Depression
Depression affects people of all ages, races and genders. While this condition does tend to run in families, the illness can strike anyone at anytime. In fact, many experts believe teen depression is just as common as depression among the elderly. Additionally, the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and the lifestyle changes that accompany parenthood can often trigger postpartum depression.
Sometimes depression is accompanied by another illness. For example, anxiety and depression often go hand in hand. There have also been well-documented links between alcohol and depression as well as addiction and depression, since many people suffering from depression will self-medicate to avoid seeking professional help for their condition.
Recognizing the signs of depression can be difficult. Everyone feels down sometimes, but depression is a much more serious condition that is often accompanied by symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, trouble concentrating, lack of appetite or a decreased interest in activities that were once enjoyable. Taking a depression test can help you decide if your symptoms warrant medical attention.
Depression isn't something you can simply snap out of. When you're suffering from depression, no amount of willpower will make you feel better. Treatment for depression typically includes counseling and depression medications such as Paxil or Wellbutrin. Consult your healthcare provide to discuss which treatment options are best for your situation.
The articles in this category offer information on various types of depression, ways of diagnosing the condition and treatment options available. New articles are added on an ongoing basis.