Friday, February 13, 2009

Learn the Symptoms Of Depression

By Russell Kemerling

Depression is a complicated illness that can be very hard to detect unless you are looking for the right symptoms. Each year over 15 million people in the USA suffer from some form of depression, many without even realizing it. Only 1/3 of the victims ever seek medical attention. Why is depression hard to spot? Unlike depression, the answer is easy. Many of the symptoms we associate with depression are problems we all experience from time to time . Therefore, it is not always easy to distinguish between what is perfectly normal and what it a sign of danger.

It's not unusual to feel some negative feelings on occasion. The mid life crisis at about 40 is common. It's seen as a big event during which people look back to determine the worth of their lives. It may be depressing to see that passed investment opportunity when you were 20 now worth a fortune. Such feelings are normal and even healthy, not depression. Short term feelings and normal moods are not depression. Depression sticks with people, and just gets more severe when not addressed. It can take years to get this illness under control.

Typical symptoms of depression can be irregular sleeping or eating habits. Short term bouts of these things are not symptoms, but if extended for a long time they are. Depression often sends people into themselves. Constant remorse and regret are common.

People feel isolated and then become anxious about those feelings. They may want to reach out for help but cannot bring themselves to do so. They may find it hard to relate to those around them. They may have been the person on the desk wearing a lamp shade, now nobody knows they're in the room. Early stage sufferers exhibit these symptoms.

When depression has progressed into later stages it begins to become apparent in their ability to be compatible with others around them. School and work are impacted because they stop taking part in discussions and activities. It's difficult to face themselves much less other people. Eventually suicide becomes an attractive option to escape the worthless life they now lead.

To avoid this unhappy result early detection is essential. Depression victims can find assistance. There are effective means of treatment that will get those suffering back on the right track. See a doctor if you or a loved one exhibit symptoms of depression. - 16004

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