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What is depression? Is it when you are feeling sad or unhappy? Everyone has experienced these feelings at one point in their life. This is a normal reaction for coping with life's problems. Depression, however, is when the sadness affects every aspect of your life.
Following is a list of common signs or symptoms of Depression:
1) Irritability-Frequent outbursts of anger, easily annoyed, frustrated by small things

2) Changes in appetite-A loss or gain of five percent of your body weight in a one month time period is a concern
3) Loss of interest in pleasurable things-Anything that you previously did that you enjoyed
4)Fatigue-Loss of energy, feeling drained physically and emotionally
5)Problems concentrating-Difficulty in making decisions, forgetfulness, inability to focus
6)Changes in sleep-Insomnia or oversleeping
7)A depressed mood-Feeling sad, hopeless, worthless
8)Worthlessness or guilt-Strongly criticizing yourself
These are just some of the symptoms associated with depression. These symptoms usually last for greater than two weeks. Depression is not something that will just go away on its own. You need to see your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. Depression is easily treated with medication called antidepressants. Antidepressants usually take up to six weeks before you can have the full affect of the medication, so don't stop taking the medication just because you are not feeling better a week later.
Another treatment is to see a therapist or a psychologist whom can help you change the way you deal with the depression. These treatments can help return you to yourself. Don't be ashamed or afraid. Depression affects 1 in 10 American adults, which equals out to approximately 21 million people suffering from depression per year.

Learn more about this author, Jen Bonds.
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