A mental health professional usually can determine whether a person has one of these illnesses, or is experiencing difficulties for other reasons. Major Depression Major depression is characterized by a depressed mood that can range from feelings of dullness or apathy to total despair. Anxiety, crying, difficulty in concentrating, low self-esteem and thoughts of suicide may occur. The most typical and obvious symptom, however, is a loss of interest in people, events, activities and things that the person formerly enjoyed. In major depression, the symptoms interfere with, or can actually prevent, the person from leading his or her usual life.
Major depression can occur at any age.
It has been diagnosed in all age groups, from infants to the elderly. About one in four women and one in ten men will report experiencing it during their lifetime. Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of mania alternating with episodes of depression. Energy level is high and the person can get by on very little sleep. They may speak very rapidly as their thoughts race from one idea to another, and they are easily distracted.