Depression, or major depressive disorder, is disorder where an individual may fee low, experience feelings of hopelessness, have a loss of interest or pleasure, and experience ongoing sadness and/or anxiety. Whereas most people’s experience of sadness or depression goes away after a few days, these feelings of depression can last for long periods of time when one¬†has a clinical depression. In the US, an estimated 19 million have a major depression today and 16% of Americans will have such a depression during their lifetime.

Clinical depression usually impacts ones ability to live a normal life. A person’s work, school, and/or personal relationships all suffer. Depression manifests itself differently depending on the person. For example, a depressed person might experiene a loss of appetite or they may overeat to compensate for other things in their life. Either way, depression is a debilitating disorder.

There are thereapies and medications that make a significant difference for people experiencing depression. If you feel that you or someone you know is suffering, you should seek medical advice from a doctor.

Resources

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml

http://www.depression.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clinical_depression