What Is the Meaning of Depression?
Depression is not exclusive. It strikes the young and the old, and both sexes equally fall prey to it. Depression is a very common mental health disorder, and it may be caused by a disturbance with the neurotransmitters that are in the limbic system, according to Allaboutdepression.com, or it may be the outcome of a hormonal imbalance. In other words, there is generally an organic reason for a person’s depression, and it’s not “all in her head."
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Losing Interest
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If you suddenly lose interest in those things that you previously enjoyed--such as sports activities, sex or socializing--this can be an indicator that you are suffering from depression, according to Medterms.com.
Biological Basis
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Those who have depression are likely to have high levels of the hormone cortisol in their systems. There are various types and degrees of depression, including dysthymia, which is a less severe type of depression. The symptoms of dysthymia are not totally debilitating, but they are potent enough to prevent an individual from feeling good or functioning at top capacity.
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Manifestations
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When a person is depressed, he is apt to overeat or, conversely, stop eating altogether. A depressed person may have a flat affect, displaying little emotion.
Withdrawal
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When depression strikes an individual, she may became anxious and pessimistic; she may feel worthless and hopeless. A depressed person is likely to withdraw, citing fatigue and lack of energy, which are all very real.
Disturbances
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Sleep disturbances may occur, and the individual may be plagued with chronic pain, headaches and digestive disorders. A depressed person is frequently irritable and restless.
Suicide
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Thoughts of suicide may surface. The individual may self-medicate, using drugs or alcohol, in an effort to cope with his sadness and depressed state.
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