It is when you feel those problems are spiralling out of control and when you start feeling depressed that you may feel you need help. Depression is a very isolating illness accompanied by feelings of worthlessness and low self esteem. It is a treatable mental illness, even in the most severe of cases. Everyone's experience of depression is different, as no one has the same life experiences or personal problems. Some people may sleep excessively and not eat, while others may eat for comfort and wake early.
Depression is an illness like chicken pox, flu or diabetes.
It can affect anyone at any time. In a number of instances, there is no particular reason for the onset of depression - it is simply a matter of bad luck. However, depression is commonly treated with anti-depressants, which raise the mood level. Anti-depressants are quite different from tranquillisers. They are not addictive and can safely be taken over long periods of time.