Depression Epidemiology Quiz

Understanding Depression: Symptoms, Types, and Treatment

• Clinical depression is a mood disorder characterized by prolonged feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration that interfere with everyday life for weeks or longer.
• Major depressive disorder is a form of depression that disables a person, affecting their ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy activities. It can occur in single or multiple episodes.
• Dysthymic disorder or dysthymia is a milder form of depression characterized by long-term symptoms that may not be severe enough to disable a person but can still affect their functioning.
• Minor depression refers to symptoms that last for two weeks or longer but do not meet the full criteria for major depression. Without treatment, it can progress to major depressive disorder.
• Postpartum depression is a more serious condition than the "baby blues" and affects approximately 10 to 15 percent of women after giving birth.
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during the winter months when there is less natural sunlight. Symptoms generally lift during spring and summer.
• Symptoms of depression vary among individuals but may include persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness or guilt, irritability, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, and thoughts of suicide.
• Depression in children and teens may manifest as physical symptoms, refusal to go to school, negative behavior, or increased risk for suicide. It can be difficult to diagnose in young people due to normal mood swings.
• Depression is likely caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Imbalances in brain neurotransmitters are believed to play a role.
• Trauma, loss, difficult relationships, or stressful situations can trigger depressive episodes, even without an obvious cause.
• Depression is more common among women, possibly due to biological, hormonal, and psychosocial factors. Men may experience different symptoms and are more likely to turn to substance abuse.
• Depression can occur in older adults, but symptoms may be overlooked or dismissed as normal aging. Older white males aged 85 and older have the highest suicide rate in the United States.
• Depression can be effectively treated, and early intervention is important. Treatment options include medication, psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy), and electroconvulsive therapy for treatment-resistant cases.