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Causes & Health Information
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Some Basics...
- Depression is an illness that causes sadness and loss of interest in daily activities. These feelings last for a long period of time and can keep a person from their everyday activities.
- Depression is common. About 1 in 20 people get depressed each year.
- Stressful life events can cause depression. Women are twice as likely as men to have it.
- People with depression can be treated. Healthy living habits can help a person to feel better. Counseling and medication can also help a person to recover.
Symptoms
People with depression feel sad much of the time. They often have decreased joy from or interest in daily activities. Sometimes people may have one or more of these:
- Major weight loss or gain and not dieting
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping a lot
- Easily upset
- Mental slowness
- Loss of energy
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Not able to focus
- Thoughts of death or about hurting oneself
- Anxiety
Causes
It is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. Stresses in life can trigger a bout of depression or make it worse. Causes can include:
- Death of a loved one
- Divorce or other relationship problems
- Loss of a job or stress from money problems
- Major life changes, such as starting college or having a baby
- Certain drugs
- Severe or long-standing illness
Treatment
- It can be treated with counseling or with medications. Sometimes both are needed.
- Healthy living habits can make a person feel better. These include eating healthy and regular sleep and exercise.
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