Depression is an illness. It can be triggered by exterior events, or be caused by internal problems with maintaining hormone balance. The term depression is frequently misused; many people get sad or stressed, often for more than a few days. This is not depression, it is simply a normal human emotion.

Symptoms of depression may differ depending on your age, gender and circumstances. Treatments can be tailored accordingly. The most important thing is to have a strong support network in place, and a trusted doctor or counselor you can talk to.

Here are some of the more common symptoms of depression:

1. Feeling Depressed

This may be a feeling of all-consuming sadness, a sense of futility, or a feeling of emptiness and as though you are 'going through the motions'. Some people describe it as feeling like they are sinking into a black hole.

2. Loss of motivation

Losing pleasure in activities that you used to enjoy, and not being motivated to complete goals at work or in school can be a symptom of depression. This can be one of the most self-perpetuating problems of depression, as the worse one does in school or at work, the more worthless and unimportant the person becomes.

3. Changes in Appetite/Weight

Feeling excessively hungry, especially for 'comfort' foods, or losing all desire for food can by a symptom. This, along with reduced activity levels, is a physical sign of depression. People may gain weight, or lose it. Depression is often linked with eating disorders, especially in women (although the number of men diagnosed with eating disorders is increasing).

4. Changes in Sleeping Patterns

Insomnia is a common problem in depression, especially if it is linked with PTSD (nightmares, a sense of isolation, and lack of self worth are all contributing factors). Alternatively, you may sleep excessively, feeling tired all the time.

5. Hyperactivity/Irritability

The depressed person may become extremely restless and irritable, unable to sit still or to concentrate. They may start many projects, become disheartened almost immediately and switch to something else. A lack of purpose or motivation can drown almost any undertaking.

6. Physical Pain

Along with a sense of tiredness and fatigue, the depressed person can become plagued with unspecific aches and pains. Soreness of the muscles, joints, headaches, and digestive problems may all be directly linked with depression.

7. Social Withdrawal

The depressed

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