It's a highly complex disease that affects the entire mind and body. It makes a person feel completely hopeless, worthless and miserable. Without treatment, those who suffer from this mental illness can become completely incapacitated. Clinical depression can strike anyone, anytime. Its causes are still unknown but may be partly genetic.
Depression tends to run in families.
Brain chemistry changes or hormonal imbalances can trigger onset of the illness. The death of a loved one. Although it's easily diagnosed by experts, depression can be tricky for its victims. Some people know they have it. Others suspect they have it.