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Depression

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes you may feel as if life isn’t worth living.

More than just about of the blues, depression isn’t a weakness and you can’t simply “snap out” of it. Depression may require long-term treatment. But don’t get discouraged. Most people with depression feel better with medication, psychotherapy or both.

Symptoms

Although depression may occur only once during your life, people typically have multiple episodes. During these episodes, symptoms occur most of the day, nearly every day and may include:

  • Feelings of Sadness, Tearfulness, Emptiness or Hopelessness
  • Angry Outbursts, Irritability or Frustration, Even Over Small Matters
  • Loss of Interest or Pleasure in Most or All Normal Activities, Such as Sex, Hobbies or Sports
  • Sleep Disturbances, Including Insomnia or Sleeping Too Much
  • Tiredness and Lack of Energy, so Even Small Tasks Take Extra Effort
  • Reduced Appetite and Weight Loss or Increased Cravings for Food and Weight Gain
  • Anxiety, Agitation or Restlessness
  • Slowed Thinking, Speaking or Body Movements
  • Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt, Fixating on Past Failures or Self-Blame
  • Trouble Thinking, Concentrating, Making Decisions and Remembering Things
  • Frequent or Recurrent Thoughts of Death, Suicidal Thoughts, Suicide Attempts or Suicide
  • Unexplained Physical Problems, Such as Back Pain or Headaches

For many people with depression, symptoms usually are severe enough to cause noticeable problems in day-to-day activities, such as work, school, social activities or relationships with others. Some people may feel generally miserable or unhappy without really knowing why.

When to see a doctor

If you feel depressed, make an appointment to see your doctor or mental health professional as soon as you can. If you’re reluctant to seek treatment, talk to a friend or loved one, any health care professional, a faith leader, or someone else you trust.

South Hills Recovery Project has 3 psychiatrists on staff to diagnose and recommend treatment should you have depression Our doctors can prescibe medicine, refer you for psychotherapy, and continue to manage any medication prescribed.