Depression Depression . Depression affects twice as many women as men, major depression is characterized by at least one 2 week episode of depressed mood.
Incidence is also high among patients hospitalized with medical illness.
There is multiple cause of depression and not all are completely understood, most are controversial. Research suggests possible genetic, familial, biochemical, physical, psychological, and social causes. Studies shows that with many patients, the history identifies a specific personal loss or severe stress that probably interacts with a person's predisposition to major depression. Major depression is a relatively persistent and prominent dysphoric mood, with loss of interest in usual activities and pastimes, which may shift periodically to anger or anxiety. Depression is very difficult to treat, especially in children, adolescents, elderly, and those with a history of chronic disease, but treatment has become more effective. .