Facts about Depression

The National Mental Health Association estimates approximately 19 million Americans suffer from depression. Depression often occurs with other illnesses, such as diabetes, heart conditions, and other chronic health problems.

Ten signs of depression:

1. Persistent feeling of sadness or irritability

2. Decreased interest or enjoyment in activities

3. Decreased or increased appetite

4. Abnormal sleep pattern (requiring more sleep or, conversely, unable to sleep)

5. Restlessness or lethargy observed by others

6. Feeling persistent fatigue

7. Feeling of worthlessness

8. Excessive or inappropriate guilt

9. Decreased ability to concentrate

10. Thoughts of self harm

It is very important to remember that no single symptom defines the diagnosis of depression. According to accepted diagnostic criteria, a cluster of the symptoms of depression should be present for more than two weeks for depression to be diagnosed.