Clinical Depression

by: Kristy Annely

Clinical depression is a medical term used to refer to any form of depression that requires treatment in order to alleviate it. Typically, people are prone to depression when something bad or what they perceive as bad occurs in their lives, such as the death of a loved one or the breaking up of a relationship. This type of depression tends to decrease over a period of time and eventually fades away; however, in some cases it persists for a longer period. When this continues for a period of over six months, it is classified as clinical depression. Just as any other disease, if diagnosed early, medical professionals possess the ability to treat clinical depression. Depressive disorders have haunted mankind since the beginning of recorded history. The Bible has references to King David suffering from this affliction. Sigmund Freud, father of modern psychology, linked depression to guilt and inner conflict.

Amongst the medical fraternity, depression is known as the "common cold" of mental disorders. Statistics show that more than 15% of the population is affected by clinical depression at some point. Most people prone to depression do not seek professional treatment, attributing their feelings to a bad mood that will pass. If left untreated, depression can get worse, and may even lead to suicide in some people.

Causes for depression are varied. Commonly, financial trouble, work pressure, marital discord and substance abuse are involved. Women are generally more prone to depression. Psychiatrists have not established age as a factor leading to depression; it can occur in a person's life at any age. Children and adolescents also fall prey to depression, which can spill over into adulthood. Genetic mapping has concluded that genes play an important role in vulnerability to depression, though this is a relatively new concept. Research has also shown links between depression and heart disease.

Commonly prescribed treatment includes correction of the brain chemistry through medication and therapy. Both of these treatments can play an important role in a patient's recovery. Treatments for depressive disorders include anti-depressant medications, psychotherapy and sometimes, shock treatment.

Clinical Depression Symptoms provides detailed information on Clinical Depression, Clinical Depression Symptoms, Signs Of Clinical Depression, Clinical Depression Tests and more. Clinical Depression Symptoms is affiliated with Manic Depression.

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