DEPRESSION

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes you may feel as if life isn't worth living.

FACTS ABOUT DEPRESSION

• Depression is a common mental disorder.
• Globally, more than 264 million people of all ages suffer depression.
• Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide.
• Depression is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease.
• More women are affected by depression.
• Depression can lead to suicide.
• There are effective psychological and pharmacological treatment for depression.

SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION 

• Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness
• Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters
• Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports
• Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
• Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort
• Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
• Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
• Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame
• Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
• Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
• Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches

SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION IN CHILDREN AND TEENS 

In younger children, symptoms of depression may include

• sadness
• irritability
• clinginess
• worry
• aches and pains
• refusing to go to school
• being underweight

In teens, symptoms may include

• sadness
• irritability
• feeling negative and worthless
• anger
• poor performance or poor attendance at school
• feeling misunderstood and extremely sensitive
• using recreational drugs or alcohol
• eating or sleeping too much
• self-harm
• loss of interest in normal activities
• avoidance of social interaction.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

 If you have any of the symptoms that has lasted for 2 weeks, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as you can. If you're reluctant to seek treatment, talk to a friend or loved one, or someone else you trust.

WHEN TO GET EMERGENCY HELP

Depression is an emergency when you start having suicidal ideation. Seek immediate medical attention without hesitation.