Depression

            
             Depression is a disorder that affects millions of people in the United States alone. Although millions are affected most of them probably don't even know that they have a problem. Depression is not the same as having the occasional "blues" or feeling sad every once in a while, and then bouncing back to one's old self. Depression can be mild, moderate or so bad it affects every part of life; one's body, feelings, thoughts and behaviors. It can have an impact on one's family, relationships, friendships and one's ability to work, play or just get through your day. At its worst, depression can even make one feel like they don't want to live. These thoughts and feelings are not one's fault; they can be part of depression. Studies suggest up to fifteen percent of people with severe depression commit suicide. .
             Depression is a serious medical condition, and a person's feelings can change with treatment. In one year in the US depression affects nearly 12% of women which relates to more than 12 million diagnosed. It affects nearly 7% of men which relates to over 6 million individuals. So depression approximately affects 16 million people in any given year. Experts say most people who have depression can feel better when they receive treatment. Many see some improvement in their symptoms within weeks of starting medication. So, in an effort to cover the entire topic of depression I plan to discuss these various treatments, analyze some causes of depression and explain its different types and describe their symptoms. .
             I describe depression as a view over a treacherous mountain range with many jagged peaks and deep dark valleys rather than a landscape with rolling hills and natural valleys. These jagged peaks and deep valleys are the emotional state of the person that's being affected. This is the essence of depression. The highs feel higher and the lows feel lower even though they may not actually be.