There is more to depression than outward sadness.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, depression is a serious mental condition with a variety of symptoms that include loss of interest, lack of concentration, changes in sleep, changes in appetite, and physical aches and pains.
The alliance reports many people with depression get better if it is detected and diagnosed early and treated with medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle choices or a combination of the three. If left untreated, however, depression can prove devastating for the people burdened with it and their families, as many feel so hopeless they become a suicide risk. According to the group, someone must experience a major depressive episode lasting more than two weeks to be diagnosed with depression. Without treatment, episodes may last anywhere from a few months to several years.
An estimated 16 million American adults — nearly 7 percent of the population — had at least one major depressive episode last year. Though people of all walks of life can experience depression, it affects some demographics more than others. According to the alliance, women are 70 percent more likely than men to experience depression, and young adults ages 18 to 25 are 60 percent more likely to have depression than people 50 or older.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) people are at higher risk for depression, because they regularly face discrimination from society and sometimes from family, co-workers and classmates. Research has shown that African-Americans and Latinos are more likely to be misdiagnosed, so people diagnosed with depression should look for a health care professional who understands their background and shares their expectations for treatment. More information is available at www.nami.org.
People experiencing symptoms affecting how they feel, think, or get through their day are encouraged to speak with their health care provider.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: www.dbsalliance.org.
You can reach Domenic Poli at: dpoli@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 258. On Twitter: