Note: Citations included, but form is not correct
Every year more than 19 million American Adults suffer from clinical depression. Many people begin to feel depressed as the result of some recent, notable event or events, which occurred in one's life. However, these events are often not the the only cause of a major depressive episode. Family history and genetics play a significant part in the greater likelihood of someone becoming depressed in their lifetime.
Clinical depression is a serious and common disorder of mood that is pervasive,
intense and attacks the mind and body at the same time. The symptoms of depression
include feeling sad and blue, not enjoying activities once found pleasurable, having
difficulty doing things that used to be easy to do, restlessness, fatigue, changes in sleep,
appetite or weight, inability to make decisions, feelings of worthlessness, and thoughts
of death or suicide. Unlike feeling down-hearted or blue every now and then, clinical
depression persists and does not go away on it's own.
Clinical depression is an illness
that can last for months or years if left untreated. 30% of all clinically depressed
patients attempt suicide; half of them succeed.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 19 million
Americans each year develop depression. Recent research indicates the number may be
even higher, closer to 20 million. Less than half of the people suffering from depression
actually receive treatment. Researchers believe that one out of every five adults may
experience a depression at some point in their lives. Twice as many women as men
suffer from depression, although everybody, including children, can develop the
illness.
As many as 90% of people with depression improve from a combination of
psychotherapy and antidepressants; however, adverse side effects from certain
medications make it difficult for many...