A full depressive syndrome frequently is a normal reaction to the death of a loved one (bereavement), with feelings of depression and such associated symptoms as poor appetite, weight loss, and insomnia. However, morbid preoccupation with worthlessness, prolonged and marked functional impairment, and marked psychomotor retardation are uncommon and suggest that the bereavement is complicated by the development of a Major Depression.

It most certainly is. Although CFS/ME and Depression do share some similar symptoms, they are completely different conditions. For one, Depression is a psychiatric condition, whereas CFS/ME is a neurological one. Depression is a very serious condition in it’s own right. And in fact, Depression can actually be a symptom of CFS/ME. To find out more about the World Health Organisation classification of ME and Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome as neurological conditions, click here...

Depression comes in many different forms, each of which affects sufferers in different ways. The three most common forms of depression are: Major Depression: Also known as clinical depression or unipolar depression, this type of depression is characterized by a combination of symptoms (above) that interfere with the ability to function normally and to enjoy activities that were once pleasurable, including sex.

How long the mood lasts: A bad mood is usually gone in a few days, but depression lasts for two weeks or longer. How much it interferes with your life. A bad mood does not keep you from going to work or school or spending time with friends. Depression can keep you from doing these things and may even make it difficult to get out of bed.

Very common. One in six New Zealanders will experience depression at some time in their lives. It is most common in 16-24 year olds, but can happen at any age.

Depression is not often recognised or treated. Different types of depression require different types of treatments. This may include physical exercise and other self help strategies for preventing and treating mild depression, through to counselling and drug treatments for more severe types of depression.

Manic Depression is an older term for what is now more commonly called Bipolar Disorder. There is no other difference in the meaning.

middot; Occurrence: Postpartum depression develops in approximately 10% of all postpartum women. The greatest risk occurs at approximately 4 weeks after delivery. middot; Contributing factors: Risks for postpartum depression include primiparity (first pregnancy), history of postpartum depression, lack of social support, and lack of stable relationships.

There is no universal cure for depression. Often, in order to overcome depression, several forms of treatment must be employed. This is primarily due to the complex and unique nature of depression.

Just as there is no single universal cure for depression, there is no single cause either. The medical community agrees that there are potentially several causes that may result in depression. In the most general terms, depression is thought to be caused by a combination of physiological, social and genetic factors.

Today, the standard treatment consists of antidepressant drugs, psychotherapy, or both. Fortunately, most depressed people can be treated effectively, but too often, depression is left unrecognized and untreated. For angina patients, depression, anxiety, and stress make the heart work harder, which in turn can worsen angina pain or discomfort. That's why it's especially important for patients and their caregivers to remain alert for the warning signs above.

Depression and PMS are different. Nonetheless, some studies have shown that women with PMS may also be genetically predisposed to depression. There is evidence that antidepressants, bright-light treatments, or counseling may help.

The most common form of depression is Major Depression, in which individuals typically suffer severely low mood, trouble with sleeping too little or too much, and loss of interest in most areas of daily living for at least two weeks. Dysthymia is a type of depression in which individuals feel sadness more days than not over a period of at least two years. Bipolar Disorder consists of periods of depression alternating with manic highs, in which an individual can feel energetic or euphoric.