Depression occurs in people of all ages and backgrounds, however it has been shown to be more prevalent in women than men.

Symptoms of Depression

• Feelings of sadness, depressed mood, or irritability.
• Loss of pleasure in formally enjoyable activities.
• Significant changes in weight or appetite.
• Changes in sleep pattern (difficulty falling asleep, waking during the night, or sleeping too much).
• Restlessness, agitation, or being slowed down in movement.
• Fatigue or loss of energy.
• Feelings or hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt.
• Inability to concentrate or make decisions.
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.

Some individuals suffering from depression will only experience a few of the above symptoms, and others will experience many. If you believe you may be suffering from depression, you should see a doctor and/or a mental health professional as soon as possible, as early intervention can reduce the likelihood of relapse.

Unfortunately, many people do not recognize that depression is a treatable illness, not a weakness or character flaw. Studies have shown that a combination of medication and psychotherapy ("talk therapy") is the most effective method of treatment today. Ninety percent of people with depression get better when a combination of medication and psychotherapy is utilized.

Therapy can help you identify the circumstances that aggravate depression, can help you challenge the negative and distorted thinking that can be a part of depression, and can help you take charge and be proactive in your efforts toward feeling better and bringing joy back into your life. Remember, depression is not a sign of weakness or a condition that can be "willed" away, but it is a very treatable illness and there is no reason to go on suffering in silence and shame.

Depression in Children

Children with depression will often experience the same symptoms as adults, but they may display additional behaviors, such as they may pretend to be sick, refuse to go to school, cling to a parent, or worry that the parent may die. Older children may sulk, get into trouble at school, be negative, grouchy, and feel misunderstood. Because normal behaviors vary from one childhood stage to another, it can be difficult to tell whether a child is just going through a temporary "phase" or is suffering from depression. If your child is experiencing these symptoms, you should bring him/her to a doctor or a mental health professional.

Depression in the Elderly

Sometimes, when depression develops, it may be dismissed as a normal part of aging. Depression in the elderly, undiagnosed and untreated, causes needless suffering for the family and for the individual who could otherwise live a fruitful life. When he or she does go to the doctor, the symptoms described are usually physical, for the older person is often reluctant to discuss feelings of hopelessness, sadness, loss of interest in normally pleasurable activities, or extremely prolonged grief after a loss.

For more information or help with this issue CALL The Women’s Center Counseling Services 242-1526 or 242-3110 ext 328