Depression
Depression is a serious medical illness
that involves the brain. It's more than just a feeling of being
"down in the dumps" or "blue" for a few days. If you are one of the
more than 20 million people in the United States who have
depression, the feelings do not go away.
They persist and interfere with your everyday life. Symptoms can
include:
- Sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to
enjoy
- Change in weight
- Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
- Energy loss
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Depression is a disorder of the brain.
There are a variety of causes, including genetic, environmental,
psychological, and biochemical factors. Depression usually starts between the ages of 15 and
30, and is much more common in women. Women can also get postpartum
depression after the birth of a baby. Some
people get seasonal affective disorder in the winter. Depression is one part of bipolar disorder.
There are effective treatments for depression, including antidepressants and talk
therapy. Most people do best by using both.
NIH: National Institute of Mental Health
Help is Just a Phone Call Away
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We cannot offer diagnosis, counseling or
recommendations online, but an Assessment and Referral specialist
is available 24 hours/7 days a week at 904.296.3533. If you
are currently experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 or go to
the nearest emergency room.
If you prefer to contact us via email, please click here to fill out a
request information form.
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