Anti-depressant medication is another treatment resource that can lead to relief of symptoms and help you feel like yourself again. Depression is a pervasive low mood that lasts for at least several weeks, and may be accompanied by changes in sleep, appetite, and energy levels. Unlike ordinary sadness or grief, depression is longer lasting, is more pervasive, and is accompanied by feeling excessively negative about oneself. This kind of depression often responds well to talking with friends, family or a counselor, and drawing on your skills of taking care of yourself during difficult times. A third kind of depression, known as dysthymia , is characterized by depressed mood and feeling negative about oneself that lasts for two years or more.
Depression appears to stem from biological, psychological and social factors.
We know that depression has a genetic component and can run in families like other illnesses, such as heart disease. Depression can be caused by biological factors alone. Experiences of significant loss, such as death of a loved one, ending an important relationship, a career or educational setback, an assault, or an irresolvable personal conflict, may contribute to depression. Social oppression such as racism, sexism, classcism, or homophobia may also promote depression. In many cases, a combination of causes appears to be responsible for the depression.