Depression affects one in four people at some stage in their lives. At any one time, 5% of the population will be suffering from severe depression. People with depression feel hopelessly sad. Other symptoms include fatigue, sleeping problems, irritability and weight loss.

Causes

Depression can be caused by factors like bereavement, events in childhood, stress and relationship difficulties, or internal problems linked to hormone imbalance, changes in brain chemistry or blood sugar levels.

Most cases are successfully treated with medication plus some form of therapy such as counselling.

Treatments

• Antidepressant drugs work by boosting natural brain chemicals levels which can take a nose-dive during depression. Give at least two weeks for anti-depressants to kick in, but go back to your doctor if there's no change after four to six weeks.
• Counselling can help you get to grips with the root of your depression. Your doctor can recommend a psychotherapist or self-help group.
• Cognitive therapy teaches you to question negative thoughts while developing a more realistic outlook on life.
• Relaxation techniques can help beat the stress and anxiety often linked to depression. Try exercise, yoga, meditation or massage.
• A change of lifestyle can help. Reduce your workload, and cut out 'props' like alcohol and drugs.

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