FREE ESSAY ON DEPRESSION

DEPRESSION

I Depression
1 Each year, more than 19 million Americans over the age of 18 experience a depressive
illness.
2 Three major types 
? Seasonal Affective Disorder
? Bipolar Disorder
? Postpartum Depression
II Seasonal Affective Disorder
1 Occurs in Fall and early spring
Varies in location
? 10% Northern New England states
? 5% Baltimore/Washington area
? 2% Southern California or Florida
2 Characterized by series of symptoms
? Change in appetite or weight
? Sleep problems
? Memory loss
? Problems concentrating
? Inability to make decisions
? Low self-esteem
? Suicidal thoughts
3 Who suffers?
? ? are women 
? Men and children suffer also
? 20 years old
? Inherited
4 Causes
? Change in sunlight exposure
III Bipolar Disorder
1 Manic depression
? Episodes of mania and depression
? At least 2 million American suffer
? 20% commit suicide
? Linked to seasonal affective disorder
2 Symptoms for mania
? Increased energy, activity, restlessness, racing thoughts, and rapid talking
? Decreased need for sleep
? Abuse of drugs and sleep medication
? Denial that anything is wrong
Symptoms for depression
? Persistent sad, anxious, or empty mood
? Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
? Restlessness or irritability
? Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts
3 Who suffers?
? 1 in 5 causes begins in late childhood or adolescents
? 25-35
4 Causes
? Chemical imbalance
? Believe to be inherited
IV Postpartum Depression
1 Recognized by Hippocrates in 460 B.C. 
2 Symptoms- appear with a few months of delivery
? Deep sadness
? Frequent crying
? Insomnia
? Lethargy
? Irritability
3 Who suffers?
? 1 in 10 Expecting and new mothers
? Affects Husband
? Affects newborn child
4 Causes 
? Not known
? Stress
? Related to Bipolar disorder
V In conclusion 
1 Three types of depression
? Seasonal Affective Disorder
? Bipolar Disorder
? Postpartum Depression
2 All major types