What is Depression?
Major depression is a serious problem for individuals and for society. People dealing with depression experience a low mood or lack of interest in pleasurable activities, and also may experience sleeplessness or oversleeping, lack of appetite or overeating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fatigue, feeling slowed down, and suicidal ideation. Depression is a very common problem, with studies finding that approximately 8% of people in the U.S. could be diagnosed with depression in any given year (most never seek treatment so are not diagnosed). According to a recent report published by the World Health Organization, major depression is the number 1 cause of death and disability in industrialized nations. This means that depression causes more problems for society than heart disease or diabetes or HIV or any other single health problem you can think of. Studies show that while depression can sometimes go away on its own, often it does not and requires treatment. Other studies show that even if depression were to improve without professional help, it usually improves more quickly with treatment, either psychotherapy or medication or even a placebo.
Symptoms of major depression can include feelings of sadness, worthlessness, fatigue, changes in appetite, loss of motivation or pleasure in life, sleep difficulties, difficulties with attention and concentration, and thoughts of suicide. For some, these periods come on fairly suddenly and strongly and tend to last for a few weeks to a few months. For others, the feelings of sadness, hopelessness, low self esteem, and general dissatisfaction with life are more pervasive and longstanding; it may be difficult to remember a time when you did feel satisfied with life.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of depression and would like to discuss treatment options with one of our therapists,
call us at 503-281-4852
or contact us through the secure, confidential form below: