Depression is a mood disorder experienced by many people ranging from mild to severe at different stages. As you will see in the indicators below clinical depression should not be confused with occasional "blue" moods, pre-occupation or times when things just don't go well.
Many in the medical community believe depression is related to chemical imbalance or other biological origin. The other significant consideration is that depression results from intense or prolonged negative life experiences. Feelings of anger, sadness and confusion commonly accompany unexpected or continuous struggles with life issues.
The following are characteristics often associated with clinical depression:
- marked sadness
- decreased appetite
- decreased motivation
- lack of concentration
- insomnia
- excessive sleeping (especially daytime)
- withdrawal from social activities
- preoccupation with feelings of low self worth
- sudden and repetitive crying spells
- feelings of hopelessness
- isolation
- suicidal thoughts
Help for depressed feelings usually involves a combination of remaining involved, diet, exercise (very important), spiritual stimulation, counseling and possibly conferring with a physician about antidepressants.
A key to evaluating depression and most emotional concerns is to ask yourself two questions.
- How often do I feel this way? (Frequency)
- How long does the feeling last? (Duration)
Mood Disorders
Depressed Anonymous
Phone: 502-569-1989
Emotions Anonymous International Service Center
Phone: 651-647-9712; Fax: 651-647-1593
Recovery
Phone: 312-337-5661
National Foundation for Depressive Illness
Samaritans International
BPSO-Bipolar Significant Others
Depression & Bi-Polar Support Alliance
Wing of Madness: A Depression Guide
Suicide Support
Covenant House Nineline
Phone: 212-613-0300, 800-999-9999; Fax: 212-629-3756
Friends for Survival
Phone: 916-392-0664
NineLine
Phone: 212-613-0300, 800-999-9999
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