What is Depression?

Abigail Noel • March 26, 2021

Depression is more than just feeling a little sad or under the weather.

Depression is a mental illness that can seriously affect a person's feelings, thought patterns, behavior and quality of life. At work, depression can affect concentration, energy level, work performance and interest in life. More than 15 million Americans, suffer from depression. At least one in six people will suffer from a depressive illness at least once in their lifetime.

Experts believe there are many factors that cause depression. Chemical and nerve cell disturbances within the brain, sometimes genetically inherited, play an important role in depression. Other factors can include losing a relationship or a loved one, stressful life events, medical illness, drinking too much alcohol or abusing drugs. Depression has also been linked to changes in the seasons.

Signs and symptoms of depression (3 of more of the following persisting for two weeks or more):
  • Ongoing sad, anxious or empty feelings
  • A loss of interest in activities that normally is pleasurable, including sex
  • Sleep problems (insomnia, early morning wakening or oversleeping)
  • Irritability
  • A loss of energy and a sense of fatigue, or being slowed down
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and helplessness
  • Difficulty in concentrating, remembering and making decisions
  • Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of depression call your EAP provider or primary care provider today for an appointment. Early treatment is important to avoid serious suffering.

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