That's the thing about depression: A human being can survive almost anything, as long as she sees the end in sight. But depression is so insidious, and it compounds daily, that it's impossible to ever see the end. The fog is like a cage without a key.
-Elizabeth Wurtzel from Prozac Nation
Depression is an illness that involves the body, mood and thoughts. It is a common and treatable problem. However, if left untreated, depression can become debilitating and potentially dangerous. Early detection and treatment can lead to better outcomes and prevent the problem from getting worse.
Common signs of depression include:
- Feelings of sadness or emptiness, tearfulness
- Diminished interest or pleasure in most activities
- Changes in sleeping or eating patterns
- Constant fatigue, low energy levels, poor concentration
- Social withdrawal, isolation, morbid or suicidal thoughts
Suicide is the most serious potential consequence of depression. Most suicidal people don’t really want to die – they just want their pain to end.
About 80% of the time people who kill themselves have given definite signals or talked about suicide. (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention)