Major Depression
Major Depression is a mood disorder. It is diagnosed after the symptoms have persisted for at least 2 weeks. Generally, the person feels:
- Sad or down
- Has decreased interest and enjoyment
- Decreased energy
- Feelings of guilt, or worthlessness
- Thoughts about death and suicide
Major Depression is not the same as the ups and downs in mood that many of us experience. Nor is it the same as the experiences one goes through when grieving for a loss.
Major Depression is quite common in that 10% of the general population may experience it at some time in life. In 50% of cases, major depression is recurrent; that is, half the people will experience more than one episode.
Major Depression is caused by an imbalance of two brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. These are serotonin and norepinephrine. Genetic factors are thought to be involved, as major depression seems to run in some families. Stress is not a 'cause' but can 'start the ball rolling'. Major depression can occur at any time in life.
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