The symptoms of depression usually build up gradually. A person may be sluggish, sad, irritable or anxious. Depressed people often have a hard time falling asleep, and they wake up often, especially early in the morning. Sometimes symptoms include loss of appetite, withdrawal, silence and inability to sleep. On the other hand, a person may experience fear and anxiety that leads them to a larger appetite, weight gain and sleeping excessively. They may also lose sexual desire. About 15 percent of depressed people, usually those with severe depression, have delusions and may see or hear things that are not there (hallucinations).
Many people with depression cannot feel emotions in a normal way. A person may see the world as colorless and lifeless and may be overcome with guilt and lack self worth. They may feel loneliness, helplessness and hopelessness, and they may think about death and suicide. As many as 15 percent of depressed people who do not get treatment end their lives in suicide.
Some depressed people may have mild symptoms that last for years. Called dysthymia, this type of depression often begins early in life. Victims may be gloomy, overly quiet and passive. They may be too critical, have low energy, be unable to have fun and be critical of themselves.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of depression, including:
- A family history of depression
- Taking certain drugs
- An event or experience that involves a loss
Depression may occur or become worse even when no obvious life stresses are involved. Painful health conditions, such as arthritis, may cause depression. Conditions that involve physical limitations can also result in depression.
Women are twice as likely as men to have depression. This increased likelihood may be a result of hormonal changes involved with menstruation or childbirth. It may also be the result of abnormal thyroid function, which is fairly common in women.