Symptoms and Long-Term Effects of Depression

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Depression is a psychiatric disorder characterized by an inability to concentrate, insomnia, loss of appetite, feelings of extreme sadness, guilt, helplessness and hopelessness, and thoughts of death. People that are depressed have sadness greater and more prolonged than that warranted by any objective reason. It is a serious illness that affects thoughts, feelings, and the ability to function in everyday life. Thirteen to fourteen million Americans suffer from depression in any given year and over sixteen percent have depression at some point in time. (Depression health) Women tend to be more susceptible to the disorder than men. (Depression)

Symptoms of depression are persistent sad mood, loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, significant change in appetite or body weight, difficulty sleeping or oversleeping, physical slowing down, agitation, loss of energy, feeling worthless or inappropriate guilt, difficulty thinking or concentrating, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. Depression may last several months or longer and may reoccur but it is generally reversible in the short run. People that are depressed need to feel connected with, anchored by, or guided by important people. (Effects) Depression frequently occurs with other physical illnesses, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. (Arias)

Some causes of depression come from family history of depression, having a baby, child abuse or neglect, stressful or traumatic life events, and having a chronic or deadly disease. Depression can cause poor cognition, insecure attachment, emotional and social impairment, impaired growth, and the need to do things that you would not normally do. Many depressed people also have another mental disorde...

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