Depression

      Depression (Depressive Disorder) is mood disorder characterized by feelings of deep sadness and loss of interest in things that are enjoyed for long period of time. it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes you may feel as if life isn't worth living.

       Depression is different from regular mood changes and feelings about everyday life. It can affect all aspects of life, including relationships with

family, friends and community. It can result from or lead to problems at school and at work.

        Depression can happen to anyone. People who have lived through abuse, severe losses or other stressful events are more likely to develop depression. Women are more likely to have depression than men.  A person is said to be depressed if they have felt sad, hopeless, or worthless for 2 weeks or more. 

Symptoms and patterns

During a depressive episode, a person experiences a depressed mood (feeling sad, irritable, empty). They may feel a loss of pleasure or interest in activities.A depressive episode is different from regular mood fluctuations. They last most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks.

Other symptoms are also present, which may include:

• poor concentration
• feelings of excessive guilt or low self-worth
• hopelessness about the future
• thoughts about dying or suicide
• disrupted sleep
• changes in appetite or weight
• feeling very tired or low in energy.