CLINICAL
DEPRESSION
Clinical depression (also called major-depressive
disorder or unipolar depression) is a common psychiatric disorder, characterized
by a persistent lowering of mood, loss of interest in usual activities and diminished
ability to experience pleasure. Although
the term "depression" is commonly used to describe a temporary depressed
mood when one "feels blue", clinical depression is a serious illness
that involves the body, mood, and thoughts that cannot simply be willed or wished
away. It is often a disabling disease that affects a person's work, family and
school life, sleeping and eating habits, general health and ability to enjoy
life.The course of clinical depression varies widely: depression can be a once
in a life-time event or have multiple recurrences, it can appear either gradually
or suddenly, and either last for a few months or be a life-long disorder. Having
depression is a major risk factor for suicide; in addition, people with depression
suffer from higher mortality from other causes. Clinical depression may be isolated
or be a secondary result of a primary condition such as bipolar disorder or
chronic pain. When specific treatment is indicated, this is usually psychotherapy
and/or antidepressants.(1)