They have persistent symptoms of depression on a daily basis and despite various efforts to stop the depression it may persist. They may have clinical depression which benefits from counseling. Other individuals have periodic, intense depressive episodes which interfere with their daily functioning. These periods may be severe enough to prevent someone from completing even simple tasks like bathing, cooking, or doing laundry. During these phases the individuals may have many symptoms of profound sadness.
Family members are likely to be confused and irritated by the depressed person's actions.
These episodes may last from a few days to two weeks. Major depression of this type generally requires consulting with a licensed therapist to help with learning new techniques to decrease the depression. In summary, depression is very common in certain situations, particularly following negative changes in our lives or during stressful times. However, prolonged periods or severe episodes can significantly impair an individual's daily functioning. In these cases counseling should be pursued through your Employee Assistance Program to help alleviate your depression in an effective manner.