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Depression is a condition that is often not taken seriously enough because people do not understand the difference between having an occasional bout of “the blues,” which is natural and temporary, and having a Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). MDDs are ongoing, and stem from a biochemical imbalance in the brain. They cannot be shrugged off with positive thinking, nor are they a sign of an individual’s weakness. Symptoms of a major depressive disorder, commonly called depression, vary among individuals. However, most people find them to be crippling in that they sap their ability and their desire to take part in daily living activities, even those they once most enjoyed. Feelings of fatigue and apathy, lack of sleep, an inability to concentrate, constant sadness, irritability, and feelings of worthlessness or even thoughts of suicide are common among depressed individuals. There are many different types of depression, but the American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) describes three distinct depressive disorders that can be debilitating and interfere with an individual’s ability to work, attend school, or to interact socially with others. The first type of depression listed in the DSM is the Major Depressive Disorder, also known as clinical depression. Depression symptoms such as feelings of guilt or worthlessness, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, suicidal thoughts, and constant sadness are present every day for at least two weeks. The second type of depression listed is Dysthymia, a mood disorder. This type of depression has many of the same symptoms as Major Depressive Disorder, but they are generally less severe, and occur over a period of at least two years. The third type of depression described in the DSM is Manic Depression, or Bipolar Disorder. Manic depression is characterized by periods of mania and depression, or extreme highs and lows. Manic episodes cause an inflated sense of self-esteem, lack of sleep, extreme talkativeness, racing thoughts, irritability, and increased participation in risky behaviors (sex, drugs, alcohol). Mania may or may not be followed by a period of depression, but symptoms of this kind of depression can be severe enough to cause psychotic episodes such as hallucinations and delusions, and may even require hospitalization. Most depression can be successfully treated with psychotherapy and medication(s), but until the right combination of therapy/medication is arrived at, this condition can be crippling to some individuals. 
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