Depression is experienced by Adults Americans of all ages, races, ethnic groups, and social class every day.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 16.5 MILLION ADULT Americans had at least one major depressive episode (MDE) between the years 2006-2007. Clients can experience mild, moderate, or severe depression with varying degrees of symptomatology.
Definition of Depression
Depression is the state wherein individual experiences feelings of extreme sadness, hopelessness, and helplessness.
Several symptoms may be seen with depression, which can range anywhere from mild to severe and be manifested in many different ways.
Causes of Depression
The direct cause of depression is unclear; however changes in body chemistry caused by experiencing a traumatic event, hormonal changes, altered health habits, presence of another illness, or substance abuse can bring on depression.
Symptoms of Depression
Here are the symptoms of depression:
- Prolonged sadness
- Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns
- Irritability, agitation, anxiety, worry.
- Pessimism
- Loss of energy
- Feelings of guilty, worthlessness.
- Inability to concentrate
- Inability to take pleasure in former interests
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Recurring thoughts of death or suicide
Types of Depression
1. Mild Depression
Individuals with mild depression may notice a difference in the way they are feeling and their ability to function in certain situations, but they may not be able to identify the problem at this point in this time. Although they are still able to function and carry on their daily routines, doing so may put quite a strain on them both physically and mentally.
2. Moderate Depression
Moderate depression interferes with the individual’s life in a variety of ways. A decrease in the ability to perform on the job may be noticed. Relationships are affected as the individual becomes increasingly withdrawn and isolated and disinterested in things that previously were pleasurable, such as hobbies and leisure-time activities. Interventions performed at this stage are most effective in arresting the depression before the individual’s mental health deteriorates any further.
3. Severe Depression
When depression progresses to a severe state, the individual becomes seriously impaired. The individual with severe depression may experience psychosis or a loss of contact with reality, in addition to the symptoms of depression.
Referrence: Lois White, Gena Duncan, Wendy Baumle (2010), Foundations of Adult Health Nursing (third edition)
Depression can be found in unipolar and bipolar disorder.
