Depression affects up to 20% of Canadians within their lifetime, although this number is thought to be underreported.  Depression is episodic in nature, usually recurring throughout ones life.  Each episode can last weeks, months, or even years.  Symptoms of depression are usually experienced for most of the day, nearly everyday.  Onset generally occurs between the ages of 15-30, and is twice as common in women than in men.  Depression is considered a highly treatable disorder through proper depression therapy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Symptoms of depression may include:

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• A despondent mood

• Loss of interest in most activities

• Loss of pleasure in most activities

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Sleep disturbances

• Decreased energy

• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

• Difficult concentration, thinking, or making decisions.

• Thoughts of death or suicide.

• Suicidal behaviour.

 

 

In mild depression:

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• Individuals generally lack the motivation to complete common tasks

• Feeling of despair and sadness are constant.

• Periods of fear and worry occur.

• Loss of energy and fatigue.

• Social withdrawal is not abnormal.

 

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In moderate depression:

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• Individuals generally require a great deal of effort to complete tasks and carry out simple conversation.  

• School or work obligations are neglected.

• Physical activity is reduced.

• The potential for loss of job or social interaction contributes to greater feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness for the future.

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In major/severe depression:

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• Individuals may fail to maintain personal hygiene because the effort to do so is too great.

• Excessive feelings of despair are experienced.

• There is almost a complete withdrawal from interpersonal contact, including sex.

• Anxiety is often experienced in tandem.

• Physical pain including tension, headaches, abdominal pain, and musculoskeletal pain is common.

• Suicidal ideation or attempt may occur.