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Depression is a psychiatric disorder characterized by a profound and long-lasting sadness or despair. It affects approximately 18 million people in the United States every year and not all of them are old enough to vote. Everyone experiences some unhappiness, often as a result of a change, either in the form of a setback or a loss. The painful feelings that accompany these events are usually appropriate, necessary, and transitory and can even present an opportunity for personal growth. However, when depression persists and impairs daily life, it may be an indication of a depressive disorder. Severity, duration, and the presence of other symptoms are the factors that distinguish normal sadness from a depressive disorder.

Depression has been alluded to by a variety of names in both medical and popular literature for thousands of years. Early English texts refer to "melancholia," which was for centuries the generic term for all emotional disorders. Depression is now referred to as a mood disorder, and the primary subtypes are major depression, chronic and usually milder depression (dysthymia), and atypical depression. Other important forms of depression are premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PDD) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

ƒË Major Depression



In major, or acute, depression, at least five of the symptoms listed below must occur for a period of at least two weeks, and they must represent a change from previous behavior or mood. Depressed mood or loss of interest must be present.





J.J.Daino IV Page2



„Y Depressed mood on most days for most of each day. (Irritability may be prominent in children and adolescents.)

„Y Total or very noticeable loss of pleasure most of the time.

„Y Significant increase or decrease in appetite, weight, or both.

„Y Sleep disorders -- either insomnia or...