Depression as a real and defined medical condition is sometimes misunderstood.
What causes depression ? Well, there are several factors that come into play when dealing with what's called "clinical depression.
" Clinicians usually use the term to describe those bouts of depression which are particularly strong and which also refuse to go away without treatment.
Everybody, at one time or another, feels depressed.
This type, however, is far more than just a "feeling.
" How does one know when depression is evident? There are usually a range of symptoms that are present, including a deep feeling of sadness and a loss of interest in doing much of anything at all.
It could also manifest itself in significant loss of weight or even a steep increase.
A person may report feeling tired all the time and will have little ability to concentrate or focus.
In extreme cases, somebody will confess to suicidal thoughts or actions.
Severe depression of this type is mainly thought to revolve around chemical imbalances in a person's brain.
A loss or lack of proper levels of two different substances -- serotonin and dopamine -- both of which help with mood regulation in a person, are treated with several different prescription drugs.
Some depressive disorders, though, are believed to originate from psycho-social issues or outright psychological disturbances.
In cases of non-chemical origin, psychiatrists (who are medical doctors) and psychologists will attempt to help the patient return to a non-depressive state through what's called psychotherapy.
Also, counseling is usually called for.
Some types of antidepressants, or mood elevators, are also prescribed in order to allow the patient to have a relatively stable daily life.
Depression isn't something that should be taboo or a subject that is off-limits for discussion.
It should instead be recognized for what it is -- something we all may undergo in our own lives -- and be treated with compassion, understanding, and frank medical and psychological mental improvement therapies.