depression

            Imagine living with the most common and most painful mental illness (Blackman 89). You wouldn't be able to do your work or get along with anyone. This disease is depression; this paper will discuss facts about depression, signs and symptoms, different types, medication and therapy.
             Depression is a persistent feeling of sadness, despair and discouragement that last over a long period of time (Salmans 171). Depression affects a person's mood, thoughts, body, and behavior (Lytle). A number of factors, both biochemical and psychosocial, combine to bring on this horrible disease (Salmans 41). The biggest factor is that neurotransmitters become inactive (Stewart 8).
             Unfortunately, only 20% of all depressed people actually get help (Stewart 11). Fortunately though, 85% of all depressed people that do get help can be helped to a significant degree (Salmans 75). Finally, in 1970, they saw depression as a disorder in young peoples (Stewart 8). Even babies can become depressed if they"re neglected. Many young people that suffer from depression turn to suicide.
             5,000 young people take their lives each year (Stewart 9). The rate of suicide dealing with teenagers, 15-19, has tripled in the past 30 years (Salmans 40). Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among older teens (Stewart 9). Depression isn't the only reason for suicide though.
             Depression has many effects on a person, both physically and mentally. Restlessness, irritability, frequent crying, and change in behavior are all common signs (Kist 26). Chronic aches and pains, such as headaches or stomachaches and other digestive problems that don't get better with treatment are symptoms too.
             Ones sleeping may be altered. A person could have difficulty falling asleep, or getting up too early in the morning, or oversleeping (Kist 26). A big problem depressed people feel is a lost in interest. A person will stop doing activities they used to enjoy (Kist 26).