Depression is described as feeling sad, unhappy, miserable or unmotivated. It ranges from mild to moderate to severe. It is normal for all people to occasionally feel morose or depressed. These temporary bouts of depression are different from clinical depression, which may last for years and severely affect the quality of life. Typically, if feelings of depression last longer than two weeks, patients are encouraged to visit a physician.

Symptoms of depression include:

1. Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day
2. Diminished interest or pleasure in activities
3. Significant weight loss or gain
4. Sleep disturbances
5. Agitation or restlessness
6. Fatigue or loss of energy
7. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
8. Loss of concentration
9. Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide ideation

The diagnosis of depression depends on how many of these symptoms are present and for how long. A major depressive episode may be diagnosed if at least five of the symptoms are present for more or all of the previous two weeks, and at least one of the symptoms is number one or two. If more than one major depressive episode is diagnosed in a certain time frame, then the patient may be diagnosed with a major depressive disorder.

Patients may be diagnosed with minor depression if they suffer from several of these symptoms, but not as many and not for as long. According to the main diagnostic manual used by mental health professionals, minor depression may be diagnosed if two to four of these symptoms are present most of every day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks.

Other common forms of depression include postpartum depression (after pregnancy) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which occurs during fall or winter and is likely due to the lack of sunlight.

If depression is diagnosed, there are many forms of therapy that may be recommended. In some cases, exercising and counseling will help ease mild depression. In other cases, the best treatment is a combination of medication (antidepressants) and psychotherapy or counseling. A number of antidepressants are available, and people are encouraged to work with their physician or a psychiatrist to find an antidepressant that works best for them. The most recent class of antidepressants is called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Seeking therapy as a treatment for depression involves:

• Finding a qualified professional who treats depression
• Being prepared for therapy
• Learning enough about therapy to relieve any fears that one may have about it