The word depression has many meanings. Its a common term for a rut or a hollow in the ground. In the financial world, it means a period of economic decline. In meteorology, it refers to a tropical weather pattern that can spawn a cyclone or a hurricane. Among astronomers, depression is the distance of a celestial object below the horizon. But perhaps the most familiar meaning of the word relates to mood. In casual usage, depression describes a temporary low mood that may come from a bad day or a bad feeling. In medical terms, depression is a serious illness that causes memory and thinking (cognitive), mood, physical and behavioral changes. Depression has always existed. Many people say theyre depressed when they feel sad, lonely, down or dejected: [Im so depressed. I have so much work to do. Im afraid Ill never get it all done!] But the medical illness of depression is more than a fleeting bad mood or period of stress. True depression — what doctors often refer to as depressive illness or clinical depression — is different from normal sadness or despair. Depressive illness, in its most common form, is characterized by the following: Lasts at least 2 weeks, often much longer. Exhibits specific symptoms related to mood, behavior, thinking and outlook. Impairs your ability to function on a daily basis. Requires medical or psychological treatment or both. The good news is that depression is treatable.
Posted on: Wed, 17 Sep 2014 13:08:55 +0000
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