A depressive disorder is more than a passing mood. It is not a signal of personal weakness, and it cannot be willed or wished away. Depression is a mental health disorder that can affect the way you eat and sleep, the way you feel about yourself, and the way you assume about things.

A depressive disorder involves the body, mood, and thoughts. People who are depressed cannot “snap out of it” and get better. Without treatment, symptoms can last for months or years. Treatments such as antidepressant medications and psychotherapy can reduce and sometimes eliminate the symptoms of depression.

Types of Depression Depressive disorders come in different forms. Three of the most usual are Major Depression, Dysthymia, and Bipolar Disorder. Even within these types of depression there are variations in the number of symptoms, their severity, and persistence.

Major depression is manifested by a combination of symptoms (see symptom list below) that interfere with the ability to work, study, sleep, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. Some people have a single episode of depression, but many have episodes that recur.

Dysthymia is a less severe type of depression that lasts a long time but involves less severe symptoms. If you suffer from dysthymia you probably lead a average life, but you may not be functioning well or feeling good. People with dysthymia may also experience major depressive episodes at some time in their lives.

Symptoms of Depression and Mania These lists are not complete, and not everybody who is depressed or manic experiences all of these symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies with individuals and varies over time.

Depression Persistent sad, anxious, or ‘empty’ mood Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness Loss of interest or enjoyment in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex Decreased energy, fatigue, being ’slowed down’ Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping Appetite and/or weight loss or overeating and weight gain Thoughts of dying or suicide; suicide attempts Restlessness, irritability Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and long-lasting pain

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3. Five Steps Out of Depression

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