What is Clinical Depression?

[mamajill]

What Are The Symptoms of Clinical Depression?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) closely links a clinical depression diagnosis with a careful evaluation of a stepped pattern of symptoms. One of two major symptoms must first be present, either a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure. In the presence of either of these states, the individual must then have at least four of the following symptoms.

Sadness and fear with an intermittent inability to experience emotion, the loss of interest or pleasure in an activity or pastime that was previously a source of considerable engagement., and marked weight gain or weight loss are all indicators.

Other danger signals are a change in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleep), restlessness, slowed movements, and mental or physical fatigue. The individual may experience feelings of guilt, helplessness, hopelessness, anxiety, fear, or decreased self esteem.

Depression causes difficulty in concentration and muddled thinking with memory lapses and potentially thoughts of self-mutilation or even suicide. It is not uncommon for these individuals to abuse alcohol, drugs (or both), and to engage in excessive behaviors such as an eating disorder or a sexual addiction.

In children additional symptoms of depression might include a pattern of nightmares, decreased appetite, and problems in school with learning or discipline that were not previously present. Children may also become withdrawn or exhibit uncharacteristic social aggression.

Do We Go "Down" Sometimes?

So what is clinical depression? Don't we all get depressed? Of course we do. Every human being feels sad at some point in our lives. Life is a balance of highs and lows. Simple sadness, however, is a transitory event, one from which we heal or out of which we can be lifted by a good time or a cleansing talk with a friend of spiritual counselor. Clinical depression settles in with a heavy weight and lasts more than two weeks. It significantly alters our ability to do our jobs, to enjoy the society of others, and to function in the family setting.

What Causes Clinical Depression?

There are many theorized causes for clinical depression. A tendency for depression can be a family trait or the result of physiological imbalances, in particular neurotransmitters in the brain. Some people allow low self-esteem and self-defeating behaviors to get out of hand and to manifest as a more serious depressive condition.

Clinical depression symptoms can also be caused by early life experiences and major trauma. The loss of a job, a financial reversal, the loss of a loved one or spouse, sexual abuse, or divorce are all major, life altering events that present significant challenges in coping.

Certain diseases like hepatitis manifest with severe depression as do mononucleosis, hyperthyroidism, and brain injury caused by a physical blow or a stroke. The abuse of either drugs, alcohol, or both can trigger depressive incidents as can simply living with another individual who is depressed.

Regardless of the factors in a person's personal or professional life or the physical triggers that may be present to cause clinical depression, help is available. No one should have to suffer through long term depression unassisted.

ref: crewind communications

[girlsrocks]

Hi, I'm Jetta and I have been diagnosed with Dysthymic  which is a mood disorder with chronic depressive symptoms........................What you have listed here actually sounds like me:

Sadness and fear with an intermittent inability to experience emotion, the loss of interest or pleasure in an activity or pastime that was previously a source of considerable engagement., and marked weight gain or weight loss are all indicators.

Other danger signals are a change in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleep), restlessness, slowed movements, and mental or physical fatigue. The individual may experience feelings of guilt, helplessness, hopelessness, anxiety, fear, or decreased self esteem.
Clinical depression symptoms can also be caused by early life experiences and major trauma. The loss of a job, a financial reversal, the loss of a loved one or spouse, sexual abuse, or divorce are all major, life altering events that presentClinical depression symptoms can also be caused by early life experiences and major trauma. The loss of a job, a financial reversal, the loss of a loved one or spouse, sexual abuse, or divorce are all major, life altering events that present signifcant challenges in coping.

I take celexa and with taking my meds it helps me to have a decent day but I do find myself depressed throughout hte day which is what this type of depression is and man, it drives me nuts. I didn't used to be like this and life was so good for me as it still is as I love my family and od of course keeps me going, my family and faith is what  keeps me strong and going.

I also he SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) disorder and beleive me, i am so done with Winter and really thinking about moving toa  warmer climate. Thankfully I have a faithful family and therapist who cares for me and helps me along, Life isn't always easy especially when depression is involved but getting the support that one needs does wonders and it's possible to live a fruitful life.

[mamajill]

Hi Jetta and welcome- It sounds like you have some great control and understanding over your emotions. It's interesting that with SAD moving often really helps. My DH actually feels better in colder climates (linked to his interest in skiing) so we are seriously considering moving out west to balance his BPD issues with the positive feelings of the mountains. Sometimes you have to take big steps, but in the long run, you only have one you and its best to do what makes you enjoy life.
HUGS
 XOOXO