Depression

Depression is a serious and common disorder. There are several different types of depression such as; reactive depression, major depression, dysthymia, bi polar disorder or manic-depressive disorder, atypical depression, seasonal affective disorder, and postpartum depression. Anyone can get the disorder, some worse than others. Many people with depression seek help. Some seek medical attention and take anti-depressants, others see a therapist. But some people don't do anything about their disorder, whether they know they have it or not. Some syptoms of depression are; you feel sad all the time, tired, oversleep, lack of sleep, loss of appetite or over eat, or you may have aches and pains. It can make you feel hopeless, worthless, alone, and discouraged. Some forms of depression have a genetic basis, such as manic depression or bi polar disorder. But most depression is learned, not genetic. Depressive styles can be passed down in families. Most people that suffer from depression can still function and still go to work or school. Others are knocked flat because of their depression. Depression affects people differently, meaning they will react differently to their depression. People who choose to seek medical attention usually get prescribed anti-depressants. Anti-depressants are used to treat depression and suppress depressive thoughts. There are several kinds of anti-depressants and they all have side effects. Some aren't as bad as others. Some range from drowsiness/fatigue to weight loss. Depression in itself is not fatal. But people with the disorder may have a major depression, where they think they need to take their own life. Those suicidal thoughts can be suppressed by medication, but that is only if the person chooses to get help.

I decided to do my psychology project on depression because there is a history of it in my family. I also suffer from depression, so I wanted to get some more facts and learn more about what I am dealing with.


Levin, Judy. "Depression and Mood Disorders." Teen Health and Wellness: Real Life, Real Answers. 2009. Teen Health and Wellness. Web 30 Oct. 2009 <http://www.teenhealthandwellness.com/article/119/depression-and-mood-disorders>.

Schimelpfening, Nancy. "Antidepressant Side-Effect Index." About.com. December 10, 2004. Medical Review Board, Web. 30 Oct. 2009. <http://depression.about.com/cs/sideeffects/a/sidefxindex.htm>.
Roberts, Faye B. "Is Depression Hereditary?." Mental Health Matters. 11 March 2009. Web. 30 Oct 2009. <http://www.mental-health-matters.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1130>.