DEPRESSION: SYMPTOMS, CAUSES & TREATMENT
Everyone experiences some amount of sadness from time to time yet depression lasts longer as it interferes with how one feels and thinks, thereby affecting one's daily life activities. It is a debilitating mental illness that can lead to such an extreme mental state that the depressed person attempts to end his or her life due to the associated anguish and suffering. In fact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and the fourth leading contributor to the global burden of disease. Depression is distinct from occasional sadness or grief in that it is more severe and prolonged, and lasts for at least two weeks. Its symptoms include: Depressed mood Loss of interest in pleasurable activities Feelings of worthlessness and guilt Irritability Feelings of hopelessness Moving or talking more slowly Poor concentration Changes in appetite and weight Changes in sleep – insomnia (...