As many as 1 person in 3 will experience an episode of depression at some point in their life - that means someone close to you will almost inevitably become depressed. Most of us know what it is like to feel a bit low now and then. If this sort of mood continues, gets worse and interferes with normal life, then it may be depression.
Depression is a complicated problem, which is often hidden behind physical illness.
This can be confusing because, for example, chronic pain can cause depression and depression can cause chronic pain. There are often symptoms of other psychological problems such as anxiety, panic attacks, obsessions or phobias, which mask the depression. Despite this, the World Health Organisation estimates that by the year 2020, depression will be the second largest cause of death and disability in the world. People who are depressed can find it very hard to admit they have a problem and ask for help. Watch out for your friends and family.