Depression is a serious mental disorder that can affect a person's mood, energy level and overall health. For depression to be diagnosed, several depression symptoms must be present for 2 weeks or more. After it has been diagnosed, there are a number of treatment options available. Most people who undergo treatment experience fewer symptoms, and some can be cured.

There is more than one category of depression. One of these is the shorter-lived major depression. This type is the more severe of the two main types and may last only a few weeks or months. Dysthymia lasts significantly longer, but the symptoms are generally less severe. Some doctors also recognize a third type that comes on as a reaction to a traumatic event. This form, adjustment disorder with depressed mood, is an elongated grieving period or an adjustment to life changes that goes on too long and interferes with the person's life.

The symptoms of depression often include feelings of tension and sadness. This may also include irritability and a lack of energy. Along with these feelings often comes a difficulty in concentrating and making decisions, and a feeling of restlessness. Many depressed people also struggle with feelings of guilt and worthlessness. In severe cases, the depressed person considers suicide or has a preoccupation with death. In most cases, the depression causes a change in eating and sleeping patterns, and results in a significant loss or gain or weight.

Depression affects a person's life in many ways, particularly in relationships with other people. Because people suffering from depression often have less energy than they did before, they may miss out on important social occasions and become less involved with their families. Their work lives may also suffer as they have less energy and enthusiasm for their careers. Their health may also be affected when their lack of energy causes them to get less exercise and to suffer from many physical pains.

Depression doesn't have to be caused by a traumatic event. It can occur at any time of life, from childhood through old age. There are some components of depression that are thought to be genetic. Depression is more common in people who have a parent who has suffered from depression. Some cases of depression may be caused by hormonal imbalances or chemical imbalances in the brain. Hypothyroidism is known to cause depression in some people, as is a lack of sunlight.

There are two main types of treatment for depression. Talk therapy has been used for decades but can be a slow treatment for some people. Medication is a newer remedy, but it generally has a much faster effect on the disorder. Many people start medication and talk therapy at the same time with the intention of stopping the mediation once the talk therapy produces results. Others choose one or the other as their only treatment.