Depression Facts

Many people have undergone depression from time to time as a reaction to a bereavement or heartbreaking situation. But if this reaction persist for a longer time and has already interfered a person’s activities of daily living then it is not the normal depression most people commonly has. Generally, an episode of depression disorder stays for up to six to nine month period. On the other hand, if the symptoms will be removed temporarily but goes back again after awhile, then it is called chronic depression. Chronic depression or also known as dysthymia, is regarded as a low-grade kind of depression however, persist in longer duration.  People who suffer from this kind of depression can continue their everyday activities sufficiently, however are continuously not happy. Usually, individuals who have a family history of depression or are often anxious can probably acquire depression. People who also have a history of drug or alcohol abuse is also said to develop this illness. In addition, compare to men, women has a higher risk of obtaining depression.

Although it is said that depression is a reaction to a distressing or miserable incident, the basis for chronic depression is frequently unknown. However, there are several elements, which lead people to undergo depression. Heredity is one common factor a person can most likely experience this illness. Notable levels of stress can also contribute to the recurrence of depression. This can possibly happen if an individual’s surrounding becomes devastating such as acquiring chronic diseases like AIDS, hepatitis B, Parkinson's disease, hormonal disorders; loss of body function like in paralysis; or years of physical or psychological abuse. The last element is lack of balance of chemicals called neurotransmitter in the brain. These neurotransmitters are responsible for the alteration of a person’s mood. If it is not well balanced, it can cause mood disorders and a person may need medication to correct this condition

The signs and symptoms of chronic depression fluctuate and can be very much alike to major depression. Normally, it starts slowly with unclear feelings of sorrow then eventually develops its strength. The person may have alteration of sleeping pattern. He or she may want to sleep excessively or may experience inability to sleep. The person with depression may become restless, feels weak most of the time, no interest to pleasure, changes in appetite, and may have suicidal ideation. He or she may also struggle to maintain relationships and is unable to give focus on things. In the case of chronic depression, mental health professionals normally base their diagnosis on the symptoms of the patients. Laboratory tests are not needed but instead there are several questionnaires that a patient will try to give answers to help the doctor come up with a diagnosis. However, if a woman is assumed to have a hormonal disorder, she may undergo a blood test. The specialist will also ask the person if he or she is taking any forbidden drugs, abusing alcohol, or has physical ailment that might have initiated depression.