Depression – a disorder that affects the total person

Nobody is stranger to the word 'Depression'. Everyone has experienced depression in their life, probably in own life or know someone who is depressed, someone near one or a family member. Feelings of sadness are normal. Everyone experiences a blue mood once in a while. But when these feelings become your only feelings, and when a blue mood turns into a persistent black cloud, you may be suffering from depression.

Generally, depression is defined as a psychological disorder that affects a person's mood, physical functions and social interactions. Depression is a disorder that affects the total person. The changes can seen in the way one eat and sleep, the way one feel about own self, and the way one thinks about things. A depressive disorder involves many things such as body, mood, and thoughts.

Depression is a mental disorder that gets hold on ones mind and body. It is not a passing mood that can be dismissed. The sufferer becomes powerless to command depression to leave. It vitally changes who you are and affects your behavior with others.

There is a little difference between actual clinical depression and normal feelings of sadness. Basically it's about intensity and time. The feelings associated with depression are much more intense. Your character and your ability to cope with reality become severely affected. It becomes almost impossible to function on a daily basis.

Approximately 19 million Americans or 9.

5% of the population are affected by depression in one-year.  10%-25% of women and 5%-12% of men will likely become clinically depressed, at some point of their life. Estimations say that depression exacts an economic cost of over $30 billion each year, of course the cost of human suffering cannot be measured. It is also known that 60-80 percent of suicide victims have a depressive disorder.

The good news is there are effective treatments are available to treat depression. However, about one-third of those who are depressed actually receive treatment. This is unfortunate since upwards of 80-90% of those who do seek treatment can feel better within just a few weeks. Many people do not seek treatment for depression for a variety of reasons. These days people are becoming aware and treating depression. Combination of therapy and medication has helped up to 80 percent of people to get rid of depression. But treatment takes time and involves some trial and error, so patience is a must.

No one is cosseted to the effects of depression. It is not a signal of weakness or failure. If you suspect that you or someone you know may be suffering from depression, it's important to get professional advice as soon as possible.

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