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Many of us suffer through mild phases of sadness. It may be brought on by a relationship breakup, a loss of family member or job loss. These feelings could last several months but we go on with are normal lives. It could be difficult to discern where normal sorrow's end and clinical depression begin.

Clinical depression is an illness that effects us psychologically, biologically and socially. It may be brought on by sadness, anger and according to some researchers genetically. Although it is hard to classify clinical depression, at a biological stand point it takes a direct route.

Depression is caused by an imbalance of the neurotransmitter serotonin, dopamine and norepinephreine. Neurotransmitters are chemical released by the nerves that deliver messages across a synapsis to another nerve. They exist in the spinal cord, peripheral nerves, certain glands and throughout the brain. The neurotransmitter's serotonin is linked to sleep, appetite, pain suppression and emotions. Second dopamine involves voluntary movement. Moreover the neurotransmitter norepinephrine is involved in memory, wakefulness, and increases the heart rate. Depression is associated with the hormone Corisol also. Cortisol increases blood sugar levels and enhances energy. It's produced in the outer layer of the adrenal gland or the cortex. When cortisol is released, it starts the synaptic nervous system that prepares the body for action.

Symptoms associated with depression are hopelessness, sleep disorders, appetite changes and social withdrawal. Major depression could cause feelings of continual deprivation, suicidal behavior and continuous withdrawal from family and society. Major depression could last up to two years. This is known as dysthymic disorder. Another form of depression is Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In most instances SAD is more often prevalent in northern parts of the...