What is depression? Basically, a person is considered depressed if they have moods and feelings that begin to effect the way they think about themselves or their lives in a negative way. But diagnosing depression is difficult because life itself can create temporary negative feelings so how can you tell if you are really depressed or just reacting to the reality of your situation?
One factor is time. If your moods remain negative over time and you just can't seem to pull yourself out of thinking negatively, you may be dealing with depression. If you have trouble sleeping that can't be attributed to pain or other medical problems, you may be depressed. When it gets to the point where you can't continue your work of daily life activities, then seeing a doctor and getting help is certainly indicated because you may have a major depression.
Other types of depressive disorders include biopolar disorder, which is characterized by cycles of mood change. Going from mania to depression, or the typical extreme highs / extreme lows that help identify this particular mood disorder.
Dysrhythmia is probably the most insidious form of depression because the symptoms, though longterm, seldom reach the point where they disable the person. Just not feeling good for long periods of time, in the absense of any medical condition, might signal dysrhythmia.
There are a lot of causes for depression including loss of a relative, end of a relationship, financial stress, etc. For women, depressive disorder can be linked to menstrual cycles and also menopause.
The important thing is to know that depression can be helped. See you chosen healthcare provider. Educate yourself on the medical and alternative health options that are available. I lean heavily toward natural health solutions myself so here are my recommendations in that area, though they are certainly not suggested as a substitute for any needed medical attention.
Suggested supplements to combat depression: Triple Complex Mood Tonic, Mindsoothe Capsules and MindSoothe Jr. Capsules, the Native Remedies alternative to prescription anti-depressants. More info: http://www.askahealer.com/depression-help.htm http://www.askahealer.com/what-is-depression.htm
