Depression is a very common disorder, yet often
goes untreated, resulting in immeasurable suffering for the individual
as well as family and friends. Understanding that depression is
an illness that can be treated easily and effectively can help
you avoid this suffering.
What is depression?
The most common form of depression is feeling very ‘low’.
When it is severe and persistent it is called depressive illness.
It is characterised by changes in mood, thoughts, motivation,
appetite, sleep and sexual drive. Depressive psychosis (such
as manic depression) is a much more severe illness, in which
a person may lose contact with reality.
What causes depression and who is
at risk?
Genetic factors pay an important role in psychotic depression,
with close family members at a higher risk of developing it.
In depressive illness, personality seems to be the determining
factor. People at risk of developing depressive illness are
more likely to be introverted, obsessive and low in self-esteem.
A range of factors can also cause depressive illness:
