by 
The Curious Bag
-
When most people think of "mental illness," they picture a disheveled person mumbling to herself and acting strangely. Yet mental illness comes in all forms. While madness and depression are both mental illnesses, they are by no means the same thing.
Madness
The word "madness" is a colloquial term referring to any type of mental illness that includes a psychotic break with reality.
Depression
Depression is more than just "feeling down." It includes feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, and can include changes in diet and sleeping patterns.
Diagnosis
At least five symptoms of major depression must have continued for two weeks in order to be classified as such. A psychotic break with reality can include hallucinations and delusions.
Treatment
Both illnesses may be treated with medication and therapy. Depressed patients who do not receive treatment may attempt suicide, and psychotic patients may harm themselves as well as others.
Prevention/Solution
The causes of both diseases are many, so prevention may not be possible. However, it is important that anyone who suffer symptoms of a mental disorder not try to "wait and see" if they go away, but to seek medical treatment quickly. The sooner you are diagnosed and treated, the sooner you can get back to living your life.
Source:
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC