Depression can be described as an internal feeling of sadness and despondence which feels permanent and continuous in nature.
The activities and habits which were once enjoyed with full zest and zeal are not attractive anymore.
Having said that, a casual feeling of sorrow or sadness cannot and should not be attributed to depression.
It is not unusual for people to get worried for no good reason and take simple and casual complications in life as part of depression (or causing them to believe it is depression).
By way of clarity, certain conditions or symptoms should be found to persist on a consistent basis for a period of at least six months.
The best judge of whether a person is suffering from depression or not is him/herself.
Once you feel sure about the symptoms of depression or related conditions which would certainly disrupt and interfere severely with the usual routines and functions of your life, then you need to seek medical help as soon as possible.
Almost two centuries ago, there used to be a prevalent concept amongst the doctors that rigorous shaking will provide instant relief and peace to the body and mind and eventually lead to curing of depression.
These days, there are numerous therapies (including electroconvulsive therapies) that can be prescribed to cure depression.
Depression can be cured by means of special drugs and medicines (although they may have side effects such as disruption of mood).
Moreover, counseling by specialists such as psychotherapy (also known as talk therapy) can be of assistance to some.
However, psychotherapy and anti depressant drugs are most commonly relied on by the experts which also bring about the most effective and efficient results.