Depression is now considered common, affecting about 340 million people worldwide. Although treatable, about half of all cases of depression go undiagnosed and unaddressed. Situational sadness is a typical and normal reaction to events, such as a recent loss, and is simply part of the human experience. Rather than suppress situational sadness, it is best to work through these periods with help from psychotherapists or counselors. A more serious medical diagnosis is clinical depression - it can also be triggered by a recent loss or other sad event, but then grows out of proportion to the situation and persists longer than is appropriate, affecting emotional health. Clinical depression often requires other forms of treatment in addition to counseling and therapy.

If you are experiencing any of the following, which are common symptoms of depression, make an appointment to talk with a therapist:

• A sullen mood
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt and anxiety
• Loss of interest in things that used to be pleasurable
• Change in appetite
• Change in sleeping patterns
• Inability to concentrate
• A lack of energy or feeling run-down  

Don't miss tomorrow's Daily Tip, in which we will list some natural approaches to support optimal mood. You can also learn more about the various types of depression by visiting the Mental Health Center on DrWeil.com.
 

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