Clinical depression is among the most common mental conditions

Clinical depression is more than just a temporary state of sadness. It has a longer duration and can interfere with ones daily routine. This illness affects about 16% of the population. It has been found that the age bracket most commonly found to be affected is in the late twenties. It is a leading cause for physical or mental disability. WHO reports indicate that by the year 2020 it has the potential to become the second leading cause for disability.

Clinical depression is among the most common mental conditions, affecting more than 19 million Americans each year. This condition causes people to lose interest in the daily routine, complicate other medical conditions, and can even lead to suicidal tendencies. Though treatment has a high percentage of success, most of those suffering from this illness hesitate to seek medical advice or treatment.

A feeling of emptiness, insomnia or in certain cases hypersomnia, loss of appetite, lack of general interest in day to day activities, restlessness and irritability, suicidal tendencies, and loss of energy are some of the common symptoms. Little is actually known about the actual reasons which contribute towards clinical depression. For some, a number of factors may be involved, while for others a single factor can cause the illness. Often, people become depressed for no apparent reason.

It has been found that people with negative thinking patterns and low self-esteem are more likely to develop the condition. Hormonal changes in women particularly during pregnancy, childbirth and menopause are likely reasons. Stress in almost all cases is an important factor. Prolonged illness and medication, heredity are also other reasons assumed to be a cause for the condition.

Commonly adopted treatment methods are antidepressant medication, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. The choice of treatment depends on the pattern, severity, persistence of depressive symptoms and the history of the illness. Like in the case with ant illness, early treatment is more effective and helps prevent the any possible serious recurrences. Clinical depression must be treated by a physician or qualified mental health professional.

Also read our article about Medication for Depression