What is Depression?

Everyone feels sad or sluggish at times. It’s a normal response to stresses from major life events like being laid off, losing a loved one, or failing a class.

But when those feelings last for more than two weeks without relief, it may be time to seek help. Of course, if you, a friend, or a loved one is contemplating suicide, immediately seek help from a mental health professional.

Depression comes in varying types and intensities. Doctors call it a “depressive episode” when problems are in direct response to a specific event, and a “depressive disorder” when the cause of the negative feelings is less concrete and the symptoms last for a longer period of time. There are major depressive disorders and less disabling types like dysthemia, which has also been called “fractured enjoyment.”

The most important thing to know is that depression today is highly treatable with various forms and combinations of counseling and/or drug therapy.

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What is Depression?

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