10% in US suffer from Chronic Depression. How will you stay Happy?

Most of us have “down” days now and then. We are blue, sad, or feel miserable and unhappy, but don’t know the cause. Chronic depression is designated the common cold of mental illness. Almost ten per cent of the population in our country suffers from chronic depression. It can affect young and old—children too. It costs the nation 44 billion dollars in lost work in young employed adults. In medical circles it is considered a serious chronic mental problem in which people suffer a mood disorder. The depressed person may feel sad, or unhappy. Frustrations and anger can also be experienced. Women are more commonly affected.

A group of symptoms define the disease. It is classified according to the number of symptoms one suffers: major or minor. The more symptoms, the more severe is the classification. In addition there are a few specific forms of depression: post-partum, premenstrual, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and bipolar disease.

Depressed people no longer enjoy life. They no longer do the things they used to like doing. Depressed people withdraw into themselves. Low self esteem and outbursts of anger may happen. Fatigue, agitation and restlessness occur. Changes in appetite with weight gain or loss may be seen. Alterations in sleep happen. Alcohol abuse may occur. They feel worthless and cannot concentrate. A feeling of hopelessness overcomes a depressed person. There appears to be no way out. Such emotions may lead to suicidal ideation or frequent thoughts about death and doing away with one’s self. If you suffer from five or more such symptoms, the disease is classified as major depression. Children may present in a different manner. A portion of depressed adults suffer from significant sleeping or eating disorders.

There is a family history in many cases. Life changing experiences may trigger depression. Death, drug or alcohol abuse and stress at work or home may start things off. There are also medical conditions and nutritional deficiencies that may act as a cause. If depression lasts a couple of weeks, one should consult a doctor. Tests can eliminate medical and nutritional problems.

There are many treatments available but should be directed by a competent physician. Prescription drugs are available for therapy in major depression with counseling. For minor disease, an herbal like St. John’s wort has been observed to be effective. Caution should be used and guidance of a physician since the drug has side effects and interacts with other medications. Exercise, meditation or prayer can be helpful. Get plenty of sleep and eat a good diet. Avoid alcohol and other drug abuse. All of these lesser actions can help clear the blues away, but professional help is always indicated if the depression is severe or prolonged.