Depression

Depression may be described as feeling sad, blue, unhappy, miserable,  or down in the dumps.   Most of us feel this way at one time or another for short periods.

True clinical depression is a mood disorder in which feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration interfere with everyday life for weeks or longer.

Symptoms of depression include:

·low or irritable mood most of the time
·a loss of pleasure in usual activities
·trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
·a big change in appetite, often with weight gain or loss
·tiredness and lack of energy
·feelings of worthlessness, self-hate, and guilt
·difficulty concentrating
·slow or fast movements
·lack of activity and avoiding usual activities
·feeling hopeless or helpless
·repeated thoughts of death or suicide

Low self-esteem is common with depression. It is also common to have sudden bursts of anger and a lack of pleasure from activities that normally make you happy, including sex.

Depressed children may not have the same symptoms as adult depression. Watch for changes in school work, sleep, and behavior. Contact a health provider if you think that your child might be depressed.