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q=Clinical+depression

Clinical depression

A mental health disorder characterised by persistently depressed mood or

loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life.

Very common
More than 10 million cases per year (India)

Treatable by a medical professional

Medium-term: resolves within months

Requires a medical diagnosis

Lab tests or imaging not required

Possible causes include a combination of biological, psychological and

social sources of distress. Increasingly, research suggests that these
factors may cause changes in brain function, including altered activity of
certain neural circuits in the brain.
The persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest that characterises
major depression can lead to a range of behavioural and physical
symptoms. These may include changes in sleep, appetite, energy level,
concentration, daily behaviour or self-esteem. Depression can also be
associated with thoughts of suicide.
The mainstay of treatment is usually medication, talk therapy or a
combination of the two. Increasingly, research suggests that these
treatments may normalise brain changes associated with depression.

Ages affected
0-2
3-5
6-13
14-18
19-40
41-60
60+

Symptoms
Requires a medical diagnosis
The persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest that characterises
major depression can lead to a range of behavioural and physical
symptoms. These may include changes in sleep, appetite, energy level,
concentration, daily behaviour or self-esteem. Depression can also be
associated with thoughts of suicide.

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 www.google.co.in/search?q=Clinical+depression

People may experience:

Pain areas: in the back
Mood: anxiety, apathy, general discontent, guilt, hopelessness,
loneliness, loss of interest, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, mood
swings, panic attack, sadness, or emotional distress
Behavioural: agitation, excessive crying, irritability, restlessness, self-
harm, or social isolation
Sleep: early awakening, excess sleepiness, insomnia, or restless sleep
Whole body: excessive hunger, fatigue, or loss of appetite
Cognitive: lack of concentration, slowness in activity, or thoughts of
suicide
Psychological: depression or repeatedly going over thoughts
Also common: constipation, headache, poor appetite, substance abuse,
or weight loss

Consult a doctor for medical advice

Note: The information you see describes what usually happens with a medical condition, but
doesn't apply to everyone. This information isn't medical advice, so make sure that you
contact a health care provider if you have a medical problem. If you think you may have a
medical emergency, call your doctor or a emergency number immediately.
Sources: Apollo Hospitals and others. Learn more

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