What depression is
What depression is not
2 major types of depression
How it may feel
How it may affect your life
Causes of depressive illness
Treatment
How do I help my friend or family member who is depressed?


What Depression Is:

• Depression is an illness that affects the entire body, not just the mind.
• One in five people will suffer during their lifetime.
• It can be successfully treated in more than 80% of the people who have it.
• Depression affects all ages, all races, all economic groups and both genders. Women, however, suffer from depression almost twice as much as men do.
• At least half of the people suffering from depression do not get proper treatment.
• Untreated depression is the number one cause of suicide.
  
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What Depression Is Not:

• Depression is not something to be ashamed of.
• It is not the same thing as feeling "blue" or "down."
• It is not a character flaw or the sign of a weak personality.
• It is not a "mood" someone can "snap out of."
  
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Research has identified two major types of depression

People who have major depressive disorder have had at least one major depressive episode – five or more symptoms for at least a two-week period. Some people may experience episodes every so often – once a month, once a year, or several times throughout their lives.

Dysthymia is a chronic, moderate type of depression. People with dysthymia usually suffer from poor appetite or overeating, insomnia or oversleeping, and low energy or fatigue. People with dysthymia are often unaware that they have an illness because their functioning is usually not greatly impaired.

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How It May Feel...

• Things just seem "off" or "wrong."
• You don't feel hopeful or happy about anything in your life.
• You're crying a lot, either at nothing, or something that normally would be insignificant.
• You feel like you're moving (and thinking) in slow motion.
• Carrying on a normal conversation is a struggle.
• You're having trouble making simple decisions.
• Your friends and family really irritate you.
• You're forgetful, and it's very difficult to concentrate on anything.
• You're anxious and worried a lot.
• You have recurring thoughts of death and/or suicidal impulses. Suicide seems like a welcome relief.
• Incessantly and uncontrollably into your mind comes the memory of every failure, every bad or uncomfortable experience, interview or date, like a torrent of negativity.
  
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How It May Affect Your Life...

• Your place is a mess; laundry and dishes are piled up, mail is unopened, etc. (Assuming you usually stay on top of these things).
• You've been making excuses to friends why you can't get together with them
• You're putting off things that need to be done.
• You can't remember the last time you laughed a real laugh.
• You don't feel like you can handle your job anymore, even though nothing has changed so far as increased workload or responsibility.
• You're drinking or using drugs to escape the pain.
• You have no ability to imagine or conceive of your life even a few days ahead - no plans, no hopes. You can't even be sure you'll still be here.
• You've pretty much stopped eating, or caring what you eat and whether it tastes good. Or, you may be eating all the time because you're bored and hope that food will somehow satisfy the vacant feeling you have.
• You're avoiding talking to anyone to whom you have an obligation
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There Are Several Causes of Depressive Illness

1. There are probably several causes of Depressive Illness and several different types of depression. Recent research shows that depression runs in families. The most severe form, bipolar disorder, is most likely inherited.
2. Certain environmental situations, such as stress, break up of important attachments, domestic violence, abuse or rape, etc. may precipitate depression, especially in vulnerable persons.

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Treatment for Depression

Fewer than two-thirds of people with depression ever seek treatment. One reason is that many people still do not consider depression an illness that can or should be treated by a medical professional. However, more than 80% of people with depression can be successfully treated.
Treatment for depression usually utilizes medication or therapy or both. A proper diagnosis is essential for determining the correct treatment, as different types of depression are treated with different medications. This often means talking to an understanding doctor who will either be able to help or refer you to someone who can.

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How do I help my friend or family member who is depressed?

The most important thing anyone can do for some who is depressed is to help him or her get an appropriate diagnosis and effective treatment. You may also want to offer to go with the person to their doctor’s appointment for support. Encourage the individual to stay with treatment. Keep reassuring the person that, with time and help, he or she will feel better.

The second most important thing is to offer emotional support. This involves understanding, patience, affection, and encouragement. Resist the urge to try to come up with answers to the person’s concerns. Invite the depressed person for walks, outings, to the movies, and other activities. Be gently insistent if your first invitation is refused.

Do not ignore remarks about suicide. Never promise confidentiality if you believe someone is close to suicide. If you think immediate self-harm is possible, contact their doctor or dial 999 immediately.

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