Everyone feels sad at various times of life, but sometimes, your entire mood and your daily activities could be hampered by negative feelings. If this is the case in your life, you are suffering from a disorder called depression.

Depression

According to Human Anatomy and Physiology, depression is a member of a family of brain disorders called psychoses, which also includes schizophrenia and manic-depressive disease. It can range in severity from a brief period of sadness to chronic, mood-effecting, clinical depression.

Causes

Short-term depression can be caused by your life situations, such as stress, and the environment you live in. Chronic depression can be caused by neurotransmitter or hormone imbalances in the body.

Symptoms

Depression causes a wide range of mood-affecting symptoms, including a general feeling of sadness and lethargy, but it can also lead to unexplained physical ailments because your mood affects more than your mind.

Major Complications

The Mayo Clinic states that, if left untreated, clinical depression can severely hinder everyday life and can lead to drug and alcohol abuse and even suicidal tendencies.

Treatment

Depression caused by stress and life circumstances should be addressed with the help of a psychologist and support from close friends. Biological causes can be treated with a wide range of medications such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

Source:

"Human Anatomy and Physiology, Sixth Edition;" Elaine N. Marieb, R.N., Ph.D.; 2004

Mayo Clinic: Depression Information