Depression

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to epxand the boundaries of our knowledge by exploring some relevant facts and figures related to human disease, i.e. depression. In this paper, the author has examined various aspects of depression and its impact on the human being. The various types of depression disorders are also discussed in the paper. Moreover, the author has also presented various causes of depression along with the treatment options that can be used to alleviate the disorder.

Depression

Introduction

Depression, as a mental health disorder, is defined as persistent feelings of sadness that interfere with daily functioning. Depression is a continuum of mood disorders that include major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, psychotic depression, postpartum depression, and seasonal affective disorder. A related disorder, biopolar disorder, includes extreme mood swings that cycle from depressive to maniac states. Females outnumber males in major depressive disorders at a ratio of 2:1 during a woman's childbearing years. However, both prior to puberty and after menopause, rates of depressive disorders between males and females are similar. Symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe, and not all people experience the same depressive symptoms. Symptoms can consist of persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, and/or being “empty” as well as feelings of hopelessness, guilt, and being worthless. People may also feel irritable and restless or may lose interest in their normal activities and hobbies. There can also be a loss of interest in sex as well as feelings of fatigue. Some people report difficulty in mental tasks, such as concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions (Hollandsworth, 1990).

Depression can occur with either loss of appetite or increased eating patterns. It may also be associated with persistent aches and pains as well as headaches or digestive problems that are not alleviated by treatment. Depression may also be associated with suicidal thoughts or attempts at suicide. Depression, along with stress and anxiety, can lead to self-medication and negative coping mechanisms such as drug and alcohol abuse. In fact, depression and drug abuse are frequently comorbid conditions (Aguirre, 2008).

Discussion & Analysis

Types of Depressive Disorders

Approximately 6-17 percent of people suffer a major depressive episode (MDE) at least once in their life. MDEs are diagnosed by the occurrence of at least five of the depressive symptoms listed above occurring in a two-week period. One of the symptoms must include depressed mood or loss of interest in daily activities. In addition, the symptoms should occur nearly every day. Depression, even when treated, holds a high likelihood of recurrence. Over 80 percent of people suffering from depression have more than one episode. In addition, approximately half of individuals who suffer from an MDE will experience a reoccurring episode within two years (Kessler, 2003).

Dysthymia is a chronic mood disorder. It is considered less severe than MDEs, as it presents with similar but less intense symptoms. Dysthymia is defined by duration of two years or longer. Diagnosis, as with MDE, includes experiencing depressed mood for most of the day on a nearly daily ...