Resources  email page print page Basic Information Introduction and Types of Depression Major Depression and other Unipolar DepressionsClassic Symptoms of Major DepressionUnderstanding Mood Episodes in DepressionThe Course of Major DepressionDSM Specifiers for Major DepressionPrevalenceFormal DSM Diagnoses for Other Depressive Mood DisordersSymptoms - Dysthymic DisorderFormal DSM Diagnoses Continued Related Disorders / Conditions Other Conditions Related to DepressionMajor Depression Related Conditions ContinuedMajor Depression Related Conditions ConclusionThe Far Reaches of Depression Historical and Current Understandings Historical Understandings of DepressionHistorical Understandings of Depression ContinuedCurrent Understandings of Major Depression - Biopsychosocial ModelCurrent Understandings of Major Depression - Diathesis-Stress Model Biology, Psychology and Sociology Biology of Depression - NeurotransmittersBiology of Depression - Neuroplasticity and EndocrinologyBiology of Depression - Genetics and ImagingBiology of Depression - PsychoneuroimmunologyPsychology of Depression- Psychodynamic TheoriesPsychology of Depression- Behavioral TheoriesCognitive Theories of Major Depression - Aaron BeckCognitive Theories of Major Depression - Ellis and BanduraCognitive Theories of Major Depression - SeligmanSociology of Depression - Effects of CultureSocial and Relational Factors in Major DepressionLifestyle Factors and Environmental Causes of Major Depression Treatment - Medication and Psychotherapy Treatment: When to Seek Professional Help and Where to Find Help for Major DepressionMeasuring DepressionClinician-Rated and Self-Report Questionnaires/Tests for Major DepressionModes of TreatmentMedications for Major DepressionAntidepressants for Major Depression - SSRIsAntidepressants for Major Depression - SSNIsAntidepressants for Major Depression - With Children, TCAs, and MAOIsMood Stabilizers for Major DepressionNon-pharmaceutical Medical Therapies for Major DepressionPsychotherapy - Evidence-Based Treatments for Major DepressionCognitive Behavioral Therapy for Major DepressionCognitive Behavioral Therapy for Major Depression ContinuedInterpersonal Therapy for Major DepressionOther Forms of Psychotherapy for Major Depression - Behavior TherapyOther Forms of Psychotherapy for Major Depression - Psychodynamic TherapyOther Forms of Psychotherapy for Major Depression - Group, Family and Couples Therapy Alternative Medicine and Self-Help Resources Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Major DepressionMajor Depression and St. John's WortMajor Depression and ExerciseMajor Depression and Omega 3 Fatty AcidsMajor Depression Serotonin Precursors: SAMeMajor Depression Serotonin Precursors: 5-HTPLess Well-Studied CAM Remedies For Depression - B-Vitamins and Traditional Chinese MedicineLess Well-Studied CAM Remedies For Depression - Ayurveda and HomeopathySelf-Help Methods for Major Depression Community and On-line Self-Help Resources for Major Depression Depression Reading List Special Issues Further Observations Regarding Major Depression Treatment and Special Issues - SuicideSpecial Issues - Severe Depression, Dual Depression and Dual Diagnosis References Depression Article References More Information Aging and DepressionAntidepressants No Better Than Placebo Says A New Study, But It's Really More Complicated Than That... 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Children, ADHD and Stimulant MedicationNational Depression Screening Day, Thursday October 8, 2009Mental Health: Our Troubled TeenagersDepression and Its MeaningsTeenage Depression and Consequences5 Steps to Emotional Freedom: Placebo or Panacea?Couples Therapy for Robert and Julia (Romeo and Juliet)New Research: Mindfulness-Based Program as Effective as Antidepressant MedicationAnxiety as a Defense Against Depression: Part 7Students and College, A Stressful Time of Life: Parents and Students BewareAnxiety as a Defense Against Depression: Part 6Brain Neuroplasticity and Treatment Resistant DepressionWhy People Might Use Anxiety to Avoid Depression: Part 5Feeling Stuck? 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The classic symptoms of Major Depression are described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR), the widely accepted standard guidelines for psychiatric diagnosis. Symptoms associated with Major Depression cause clinically significant distress and impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning. A person is diagnosed with MDD when they experience five or more of the following symptoms nearly every day for the same two-week period, and at least one of the symptoms is depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure:

• Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping
• Fatigue and lack of energy
• A dramatic change in appetite resulting in a 5% change in weight (gain or loss) in a month
• Feelings of worthlessness, self-hate, and guilt
• Inability to concentrate, think clearly, or make decisions
• Agitation, restlessness, and irritability
• Inactivity and withdrawal from typical pleasurable activities
• Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Depressive symptoms can vary tremendously from one individual to the next. While one depressed person may experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and helplessness, another may feel angry, irritated, and discouraged. Depressive symptoms may also seem like a change in someone's personality. For example, a typically patient person might begin to lose his or her temper about things that normally would not be troubling to him or her. Depressive symptoms can also change across the course of the illness; someone who is initially withdrawn and sad can become highly frustrated and irritable as a result of decreased sleep and the inability to accomplish simple tasks or make decisions.

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When Major Depression is severe, people may experience psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions. Hallucinations are "phantom" sensations that appear to be real even though they are not caused by real things in the environment. Hallucinations may occur within any sensory realm (including sight, sound, taste, smell and touch), and can be very convincing (as well as disturbing) in their reality. The most common form of hallucination is auditory; involving hearing voices of people who are not actually present.

Delusions are very strongly held false beliefs that cause a person to misinterpret events and relationships. Delusions vary widely in their themes; they may be persecutory (someone is spying on or following you), referential (a t.v. show or song lyrics contain special messages only for you), somatic (thinking that a body part has been altered or injured in some way), religious (false beliefs with religious or spiritual content), erotomanic (thinking that another person, usually someone of higher status, is in love with you), or grandiose (thinking that you have special powers, talents, or that you are a famous person).

When someone is depressed and experiencing psychotic symptoms, the content of hallucinations and delusions is usually consistent with a depressed mood and focuses on themes of guilt, personal inadequacy, or disease. For instance, depressed people might truly believe that they are not able to perform their job or their parenting duties because they are inadequate (a feeling that may be reinforced by voices telling them that they are inadequate) and that everyone is snickering at them behind their back. A depressive episode that involves psychotic symptoms can be particularly problematic because a person can lose the ability to discriminate between real and imagined experiences.

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Thank you!

It might be Guilt - - Nov 16th 2009

Harriet - it might be guilt or possibly self-hate that is causing you to need for things to go wrong.  You may feel that you don't deserve to have everything going well.  Yes, that could be the depression working.  Children often feel guilty when their folks break up, thinking (incorrectly) that maybe they had something to do with the breakup.  I couldn't know if that is the case with you, but your symptom could be part of the depression.

A question of symptoms? - Harriet - Oct 27th 2009

Hello, I am a 16 year old, and have just started my A levels. I have been suffering from depression for about two years now, ever since my parents split. I now understand the concept and have learnt to accept my condition. However, I have researched for a while now and still have one question. There is one symptom I seem to have which I can not find as a symptom of depression and was wondering if it is at all or an entirely different thing all together. I keep finding myself in desperate need to have something wrong in my life, whether it is physical, mental, emotional or a family member's problem. As soon as everything is happy and working well for me, I have to find something wrong. I think it may be a way for me to cope, I'm not sure. Please help with my query and thank you for reading. H.

Keep your head up - - Sep 10th 2009

 I can understand how you feel, because we all have gone through a teenage love. I also know because I have a son that is your age and he too has gone through the same thing. Understand we all make mistakes, and some mistakes take longer to learn from. You can still love the young lady, but rest assure that another will come along. You have the rest of your life. It is always hard to get over someone you love as a teenager and as an adult. You must not blame yourself and hold yourself down. If you do, she or anyone else will not be able to see what a wonderful person you are mistakes or no mistakes. Talk to your mom, we talk your heads off, but know how you feel you never know it could help. =)

Its about me... - Atishay Jain - Sep 1st 2009

Dear mam,

I am a teenage boy of 15 years of age. Its been more than a month since I went deep down in a depression state. The thing is that I just want to share my feelings, that is it. I don't want to seek any help or something because it won't help me out. So the matter with me is that, the girl I love the most in this whole world, is not in relationship with me anymore. Actually, this all happened because of me. There ain't no fault of her. Infact I'd say, she is so good at heart that she forgived me for the thousands mistakes I did. But I did it again. I hurted her again. But i swear on my mother's life i never intended to hurt her. I cannot even dream of hurting her. The thing is that my luck didn't favor me. And since i lost her, nothing has been good at my part. Not even a single thing! My mom and dad are angry with me and ain't talking to me. I failed in all my examinations held in th prevoious month. I lost my happiness which is related to her. And my mom's gonna leave this home if i ain't going to tell her the reason of my sadness within a week. I lost everything!! I just need just one last to prove my love for her but its real hard you see. But trust me mam, this time I've even prayed to God, so that my luck favors me now. And I won't hurt her ever, I swear on my mother's life. I feel so suffocated, so lonely, so helpless, so hopeless from within. Please mam, pray for me. I will be highly obliged. I also request my fellow internet users to pray to God for me. Thank you all for giving your precious time to read this message.

My Dad - Amy - Sep 1st 2009

Hi I am 18 and just recently came back to live with my dad after he and my mother split 4 years ago, I feel he is depressed he shuts himself off from everyone, gets angry because everyone has someone but him, he has no interest in interecting with people, and he is pushing everyone away he doesnt sleep much hes lost all interest in work which he used to love he has been given a really good opportunity a friend helped him start a buisness 4 years ago. I am finding it very difficult because he is lashing out at me and everyone else who loves him. I cannot speak to my family about it because they wud worry to much and if i approach him about anything he gets angry at me. I don't know how i can help him and I am finding that I dont want to be around him at all. I once had a very close relationship with my dad and he used to talk to me now he just yells and gets angry he loved his horses now he just can't be bothered with them. What do i do?? I need to somehow get through to him before he pushes everyone away and I scared that he is going to hurt himself as he drinks a fair bit and becomes to drunk to stand. Can someone please help me??

Thanks

My husband has been suffering - Mrs. Timberlake - Aug 27th 2009

My husband has been suffering along time with his mom being sick and his brother being sick and then find out that his uncle,and close cousin was sick too, and then all of a sudden they all start dieing one month at a time. After all that he haven't worked since 2001 he had been on his job for 24yrs. And he developed a lung disease and then he couldn't work anymore, so then he be came very depressed and so know he's been fighting disabilty every since 2001. and with the mental illness and the lung disease and all other health isssues he would be able to get on. Also he suffer from aphobea he haven't been outside for about 3mos.

Way off key! - NACY DALRYMPLE - Aug 24th 2009

I had alot of thing's that were barthering me and i also thought i was depressed but it was not as bad as i thought. i had started to take Vitimin B12 stress tabs and alot went away. i was lacking the energy i needed and the vitimin helped break down food into energy. Alot of times people are treated for depression and need vitimins, and other suppliments that doctors fail to tell you I suggest you people go and try this before you take any chemicals and if you are taking Ambien it can cause depression also i take it and I have noticed that was happening so i have trouble sleeping for years i have to find something differnt. They said it was the one with the least side effects but i don't think so. that's my story and i'm sticking to it! Nancy

Help for you - MJ - Jul 28th 2009

Gail,

For your 19 yr old daughter, call your local MHMR.  They can help you and connect you with the proper facility should your daughter need inpatient care. 

where do i get help - gail farrel - Jul 25th 2009

hi,my daughter is 19 and has just been admitted to hospital.she is aggresive,doesnt sleep,doesnt eat,cries alot,thinks everyone is out to get her.she self harms either throughcutting herself or eating foods she is allergic to so she goes into shock. her dad died 2 years ago and it has been getting worse ever since.she now has a very abusive.controlling boyfriend.i want to help her but i have no idea where to go to get help for me so i can help her deal with life in tyhe proper way not in the distructive way she is currently doing. PLEASE HELP ME. i am also a victim

symptoms - jay - Jul 14th 2009

i was wondering if major depression and low self esteem can cause a person to walk funny,like an abnormal gait??also can it have an effect on speech??i stutter alot more than i use to

Editor's Note: The more severe Major Depression becomes, the more likely a person is to display 'psychomotor retardation' which is a sort of general slowing down of normal movements like walking.  This can be pronounced enough of an effect as to be 'abnormal' in character, but usually it is an abnormal slowing of one's pace more than oddness of gait, etc.  Speech similarly can become affected.  I'm not sure how common stuttering is as a side effect of Major Depression - I suspect that only people who stuttered originally would be affected - but stuttering can be affected by emotional state so I don't see it as odd that stuttering could b affected. 

myself - - Jul 2nd 2009

i have just turned sixteen and i have also just cme out of a secure hospital ,i usually feel up and down but now i feel empty , i had a therapist who i got on really well with and i havent seen he in ages,i feel i have been left here to struggle on my own, i have no-one to talk to ,not even a friend,i have never been diagnosed with depression or any othere depressive illnesses but i feel it , maybe its because i try not to show my feelings,why upset others and make them feel how i feel,i wouldnt say im suicidal because im scared of death but life seems pointless and i dont see why i am hear , i dont feel hungry anymore or like doing anything , but i suppose i cant be that unhappy otherwise i wouldnt have bothered coming on this website as a way of releasing my feelings , what upsets me most is that when i was in hospital for the majority of the time i was happy,i liked the staff and was able to talk but now , its gone

HELP - - Jun 30th 2009

I can identify with all the comments so I guess I am depressed.  However, I am so confused why do I have no energy or interest in the things I like to do?  It is like an effort to move.  Have a loving family, but no energy to get off the couch and do anything.  I feel like the laziest person in the world.  Is this a normal action of a depressed person.  WHAT DO I DO TO FIND ENERGY?  Looking for help!

CBT vs. Medication - Allan N. Schwartz, PhD - Jun 26th 2009

Dear Bev.,

The answer to your question is somewhat complicated. Your GP and Psychologist are not completely right nor are they completely wrong. Here is what I mean.

Symptoms vary from one person to the next and, therefore, so does the treatment. If a patient with Major Depression is so completely overwhelmed with symptoms that they cannot get out of bed and are in danger of suicide they will need hospitalization and medication treatment. Once stabilized, they will be psychologically open to CBT and, later, be able to gradually stop the medication.

However, another patient diagnosed with Major Depression may not be so deeply depressed at the moment so that they cannot function. They feel awful but continue to go to work, and are able to go to the doctor's office. This patient will be able to take full advantage of CBT without medication because they still have enough energy to move forward with their life.

There is also the issue of age. The older a person is and the longer they have been depressed, the less likely it is that CBT alone will resolve the symptoms.

There are even cases where someone is so deeply depressed that neither psychotherapy nor medication relieves their symptoms. These individuals sometimes become candidates for Electro Convulsive Therapy. Now, there is new treatment, still experimental, where electrodes are placed in the part of the brain where the cause of the symptoms seem to be located and automatic stimulation relieves and prevents any further deep depression.

Hope this helps,

Dr. Schwartz

Cognitive beahiour Therapy - Bev - Jun 26th 2009

Dear Editor

You state that it is possible to start this therapy & control Depression without antidepressants. Well, my GP says (& so does my psycologist) that it is useless to try to work with a patient who is not medicated. They say that Cognitive BEhaviour Therapy doens't allow them to work effectively with the patient, till the are on a contolling dose of meds. Please give your opinion.

Sounds Like Me - MMT - Jun 10th 2009

First, I'm glad I found this site.  I'm 45, been married for 20 years (next week) and have 2 beautiful daughters (13 & 11).  I've struggled with depression since childhood.  I take meds, have had therapy and been prayed for by dedicated Christians.  There are times of relief but it's always lingering.  

I started and am the president/ceo of a multimillion dollar medical staffing company.  08 was fantastic but 09 has been difficult financially.  I live in a 4800 sq' home on coastal water with a dock, have a boat, sea doo and a BMW 750Li.  I work out twice a week with a personal trainer and run or ride a bike a couple more days a week.  However, I'm sad, angry, stressed, frustrated, guilty and have turned into a negative spouse and father.  Oh, I can still muster up a pretty good face in business meetings or social events but it takes a lot of energy and concentration.  I have zero close friends because I don't want to make the effort.  I'd rather be alone. 

Recently, my wife checked herself into rehab (alcohol) and has been sober for close to 90 days.  I went to one meeting with her but I'm so focused on my own well being that my interest in her needs have diminished.  Thus, no needs in our relationship are being met...physical, mental or spiritual.  She's about had it and my girls don't like being around me.  Man, am I having a pity party or what?  I feel so selfish.  I hate this.  This is not the person I desire to be.  I want to love my wife and girls with all of my heart.  They don't deserve to be cheated.   Somebody say something! 

A REASON... - audrey - Jun 2nd 2009

I have major depression, and am struggling to find a reason- a good reason why I should stay here......  Other than to just take care of others. No interest in anything anymore. Been like this for two years.... When does it end? Will it lift????

try this.... - - Jun 1st 2009

well, first of all posting your blog is a big step to healing. Talking about it with a someone who's been where  & who will understand and not pass judgment is important for us. We have to be able to vent and talk freely and sometimes talking to a trusted person is not alway best (through our eyes)at least). As strange is it may seem you should call a hot line. They have trained ppl who'll listen and give advice & there is no time limit unlike that of a therapist offc. I used to volunteer for one, ppl would call at all hours of the night just to talk and vent. I highly recomend it to anyone if you seek to talk to some one ASAP. They are there for you. I hope this helps.

 -D

this is total agony - - Jun 1st 2009

I have just discovered this site and it is so good to hear others suffer the same as me. I have a great husband and three great kids. I have a great job lots of friends and a nice life....but... this depression does not care !! Having suffered depression all my life and I think my mum did to, as I remember her dark moods, it has now reached the worst ever. Irrational thoughts nausea,panic, fear, trembling ,tiredness, feeling hopeless. Yesterday we went to the beach and I was sure that this would be a lasting memory for my kids. Such a lovely day and fun for all. I drank vodka all day and wrote my 'notes' last night.But I am still here this morning. My suicidal thoughts has now moved beyond 'not for the sake of the kids' as the agony of this illness is overwhelming.I have taken ssri meds and tried to get help from professionals but nothing helps. The stigma of this is too great to bear as I have been a great pretender all my life putting on a brave face . Being the life and soul of the party and dying inside. I cant talk to my husband and only to one good friend but she is backing off a little too. This is crap and what should I do.??

Depression - Jack - May 31st 2009

Hey Carly this is in response to what you have wrote. I definitely know what you are talking about. I have had anxiety and depression my whole life. There are times that i cannot function and going out in public is a real task. I do not want to be around anybody, but i dont want to be alone. I feel tired all the time and cannot seem to get enough sleep. Sometimes i have crazy dreams and crazy thoughts that come through my mind. I need someone to help me. I dont understand i sometimes feel very happy and then all the sudden i will be depressed for a certain amount of time. It could be weeks or months. I am currently in iraq right now and i dont know what i am going to do. I feel like i am going out of control and the stress is too much. Just stand strong Carly i am right there with you. If anything we understand what eachother is going through.

DEPRESSION - PLEASE HELP ME! - CARLY - May 19th 2009

I don't really know how to start this - let's just say I'm trying to find a different way to reach out. I have depression and anxiety, have had for many years now, and it just won't stop. That's the word right? Stop! Just everything stop! I don't understand how anybody is expected to live like this. There have been a lot of things that have happened in my life, but I don't want to even write about them. To be honest, I've been having CB therapy for years and have grown tired of telling my story over and over - I feel like it falls on deaf ears. The doctors listen and make their notes, and i guess it's good to talk...... but then you have to go home. And nothings changed, right? I still sit there rocking on my bed, crying for hours without a reason, trying to think straight with no success, feeling like i'm going insane, unable to tidy, make myself something to eat, shut my head up, stop the fuzzy whizzing shooting through my ears, or even brush my teeth. I've had depression my whole life, had a breakdown three years ago at age 20 and things have been worse since. I think I'm scared of sleeping, or maybe of waking up, I'm always exhausted because I can't get a good sleeping pattern no matter how hard I try, my body hurts, aches all over, I can't work, couldn't finish college because of how long I was in hospital after the breakdown, I don't want to be around anyone but I don't like the loneliness, I have no friends, my family believe that I should just 'get over it', which hurts me a lot, I can't even leave the house. I've been using my family as my reason to carry on, try to think of how much it will hurt them if I was gone, even though I hardly see them. But things have changed in me. I can't seem to feel properly, emotionally I'm nearly completely detached from existence. And it just doesn't seem enough anymore, I need a reason to live through this hell, this pain that never goes away but I see no future for me. That person who wanted a career, husband and family is gone. This disease has killed her and all that's left is pain. I guess that's why I'm writing. If you have no close family, no friends and no life, what's the reason to fight? To live in pain? I know there are many unanswered questions, but this one needs to be answered, I'm begging you - why?!! Please help.  

depression... - patti - Apr 9th 2009

hello,

i have been depressed for 2 years and i am miserable.  i had a brain injury 2 years ago and i wished i would have died then. it would have been easier than what i am going through now. i have tried to kill myself twice, and now my physciatrist says i should go through eloctro therepy, and because i have 3 kids i have agreed to do it, but i am nervous about it i dont know why but  i am   if anyone has had shock therepy please advise,\

thank you,

Feeling secluded - Suzie - Mar 21st 2009

Can anyone help? For quite a while now I've been feeling secluded at uni. It's not that I don't like it but my course doesnt mean you have to be in alot and my flatmates seem to have alienated me. I'm trying to make it better but not sure if am making it worse. I have always had bad feelings sometimes in my life but now it seems more often and want to know if I may have mental problems. I also like being either completely alone but if people are in the house I want to be included.

TO KELLI - BETH - Mar 4th 2009

hey kelli,

i know exactly how you feel, just hang in there. Remember that this too shall pass. find some strength in others that love you and want to help.

To the previous poster...Khelli - Dr.T - Feb 16th 2009

Hi Khelli,  I undersand what you are feeling and how you could feel the way you do. Believe it or not, everyone has felt the way you do and no one in this life, no matter how happy they appear or say they are, can avoid some point in their life when they're depressed, stressed, and just simply tired of the repetative nature of life and all of its trials and tribulations. I am also a young woman and I have experienced many of life's transitions, both good and bad, and it takes a lot of strength, determination, and motivation to get through it. But once you do, you will more so appreciate the joy that has come out of all that you have had to experience. It may not seem that way now, it never does, but one day you will look back and appreciate what you've had to experience. A lot of times pain makes you a better person, depression makes you more compassionate to others, and can open a world of wonderful things to you that you may not have noticed without pain. You know? If not, you will one day.

Have you considered counseling or speking with someone about your depression? It doesn't always have to be a conventional psychologist or counselor. It can certainly be a spiritual guidance counselor, someone who can give you a spiritual boost or encourage you to try mindful meditation or something to help you cope. I would encourage you to try a meditation and educational CD called "The mindful way through depression." You can visit Borders.com and type in the name. As a student of clinical psychology I have seen this CD work for some. Music and art therapy are also attractive choices. In fact, those who suffer from depression say that classical music puts their mind at ease http://www.newser.com/archive-science-health-news/1G1-186444164/classical-music-cuts-depression-and-stress-in-pregnancy.html and certain piano sonatas http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/01/24/using-music-to-lift-depressions-veil/.

I hope you will consider what I have said and please try to remember that no matter how bleak it may get, things can't stay that way forever.

I wish you well.

What Do I Do From Here? - Khelli - Feb 15th 2009

I was recently rediagnosed with depression and anxity by my doctor. Alot has happened to me in my short lifetime, from sexual abuse to me attempting suicide, to commiting a violent crime which ruined my already terrible life, my pediatric doctor first noticed my behavior when I was around 12 and my brother and I were fighting and o hit him in the head with a glass vase. She sent me to a psycologist who after finally opening up to her, died 3 months into our sessions which caused me to go off of my medication and being treated for my depression, I since then knew it was there and on several occasions tried to commit suicide. Alot has happened since then  which brings me to where I am now. I am a mother of 3, I recently had to make a decision that has caused more things to go downhill in my life, no one really understands what I am going through. I dont feel that I am a good mother so I currently live with my grandmother, at 22 everything I have attepted to put effort into has failed, after I graduated highschool nothing has been easy as expected but for me, I jus hate my life it seems as though as soon as I try to piece my terrible life togather, an event happens, im on meds and that dont seem to work, I always feel like the negative comments people around me make are directed toward me and now the onl outlet I had to clear my mind has been taken from me because for my case I was placed on a very restrictive home monitering witch does not allow me to carry out anything even so simple as going to the grocery store, I feel like a prisoner in my own house and im starting to fell down to a point that I dont want to be here, I dont want to live this life, I hate my life and often I become agitated and irritable to a point where if my children call my name in one of my mood swings I become upset and yell and have to often lock myself in my room to stay away from noise and problems because in an instant I can snap, I hate being like this, thats why im in a position that I am now, I allowed a girl to get to me so bad (which doesn;t take much at all) to the point that I aften have thoughts of harming her or myself to not be bothered with it, and it caused me to hit her with a bat causing her to lose a tooth, I thought I releaved the stress but within 3 days I was irritable all over again, I dont know what to do with myself now, I wanted to check into a mental health institution but I hate being secluded, it drives me to start hallusinating creating events and talking to people that were not there, I am so confused because at this point I feel as though im bonafied crazy, i;ve gain 37 pounds in 4 months, I cant sleep at night and often will wake up at 8 am and not get to sleep til around 4 am almost everyday, i've ruined every relationship i've had I hurt and I want it to go away, what to do?  Somebody help me!!!!!!!! Please

I need help - Peggy - Feb 14th 2009

I am new with this depression. My husband is being treated for depression.

He seems to be getting worse. I am the only one home with him daily and I am the ane that gets all his frustation out on. He does not hit but he does verbal .all the time. He is determined in his mind I'm having an affair. Which I have never in our 22 years of marriage ever thought of doing.  But in his mind I am a lier and cheater. He is a totaly different person. For 4 years now thing have gone down hill. I don't know if the meds. are really helping him. I don't know how to find out more or what to do before this ends in divorce for us. Can you help.

To Concerned Wife - Jim - Feb 5th 2009

Your husband needs help and is probably trying to reach out. Who is administering the meds? Is it just his medical doctor, or a qualified psychiatrist?

 It doesn't sound like he is in some sort of therapy. He needs it.

 Can you get him to go to a doctor, therapist, or maybe even a pastor or preist? With the suicide thoughts, all would recommend he get treated. They say that these things are driven by the chemicals in our body and that the drugs can help. 

Give him a safe place to talk this out and get proper treatment. 

God bless you, your husband and your family. 

i cant get better even if my life is fine - darcy - Feb 3rd 2009

um hey. i feel depressed a lot, sometimes for no reason. i seem to have a good life, and i do in some ways. but ive been a cutter for about 5 months now, and i have anorexic eating habits. ive been trying on and off to get better, but i like to cut because it gives me some sense of control in my life. i feel inadequate and i have an unfortunate knack for messing stuff up. i hurt people with my "habits" and it makes me feel like a horrible person. i feel alone a lot so i just felt like getting this off my chest. so um yeah.

Dont know what to do anymore.... - Dan - Feb 2nd 2009

Okay so.....I'm a teenager, still in highschool, its my last year. I graduate in three months and i honestly feel like i dont think im going to make it. I feel like my parents are completly against everything i do, My "girlfriend" and my "best friend" are talking alot more than they should and i just feel like everyhting i falling apart. I've felt like taking a gun to my head and just getting it over with since the 7th grade. I dont get along with alot of people because i get mad way to easy, I will not cooperate in social events ever, I in general just don't like being around other people. I get way to nervous. I used to cut.....but i stopped doing it because i realized that its just a stupid way of getting attention and it solves absolulty nothing. However, half the time i dont eat right, I eat pills more than i should , I cry alot, And when i'm "Happy" i'm still sad about something or find some way to wreck my good mood. I really don't know what to do anymore, I'm so ready to just pack everything i have and jump in the car and drive. So ... yea i don't know, I'm sorry for whoever is reading this, i just wasted your time. But yea, i guess it just feels good to vent sometimes, and the werid thing is , I'm venting on an open internet site, i have no idea who's gonna read this , so yea. idk ......i just want to know if i've got depresssion or if its just because i'm stupid and want attention.

What the hell is wrong with me !!! - Dawn - Jan 17th 2009

I am one of those people that when the help is there i convince them i will be alright. When i am in that place when i need it the most, i am a very good lier. They listen too, i dont understand it becuse i will admit to u, i am am a cutter. I am 26 years old i have been doing this for awhile. I have a few people in my Family that arn't quite right in the head. I have looked at them and always laughed about it. It is not funny anymore becuse i find myself here right now. To make it all better i cut myself. I have 3 Kids that one day for no reason just gave them up. There are reasons for it i just did't wake up one day and decide it, it just happend becuse that was was the best thing i could do . My crazy uncle that i took care of that is skitzo raped my little girls i found that out after i gave them away, so u can kind of understand why i want to hurt. I cant get any better anymore i am beyond that and i convince everyone else that i am am ok I am so sick of them beleiving my lies. its not just that either i have been Mad and Pissed OFF my whole life and everytime everything is going good i doo something to mess it up. i am tired of being a good lire i really need help before i cut myself any deeper/.I dont think my arm can take one more cut. I am sorry but that is just trhe  way it is i just think i am beyond help.

how do you convince someone they need help - Concerned Wife - Dec 16th 2008

Hi all. My husband and I have been together for 6 years married a couple months. He has been on a thyroid medication and an antidepressant which he recently decided he didn't need. He has fallen into what this article describes as a uni- depression. He is always down and in a foul mood and recently started "joking" about how quickly he could end his life. I have tried to convince him to get help without any luck. Do I have the right or should I try and force the issue of getting help- i.e. counseling, etc?

Came Looking for Answers to a friends Suicide - kim - Dec 4th 2008

Hi all.. Well I came here looking for answers to my best friends suicide. She was Dx's with MDD. She committed suicide on November 26 2008. She had the world at her finger tips. Her husband is a CEO of a very large corp. She had a very nice home, debt free, just about everything she could ask for. I just dont understand what happened. For the past 1 1/2 yrs she started falling into this funk. then started not leaving her house. I just cant understand it all. I am torn to pieces at the turn of events and the loss of my dear friend. She had went to the Psyciatrist on Tuesday and was very up beat then on wednesday she killed herself. The doc told her husband that she had really fooled everyone on Tuesday. Even to the point that she was up beat and laughing adn they were talking of reducing her meds. How do we as survivors of a loved ones suicide cope and go on? She was only 56. Two great boys. A good husband even through tough and hard times. Fiends that truly cared and loved her. I know she loved us all too but how do we now cope????? If any of you out there are seriously thinking suicide its the easy was out. Think of your loved ones, husbands, wifes, mom, dad, friends, and most of all your kids. Do you know that if a parent commits suicide that statistics show that one child will follow that parents foots steps and repeat the act. Which child would you choose to die?  I have been reading a lot since last wednesday. I just want to understand and guess i never will. Please seek help and don't go as far as my friend did. Your loved ones will be where i am today. Confused and still looking for answers! Email Lovinsweetlly@yahoo.com if you have the answers for me!

what a nightmare! - blanca - Dec 3rd 2008

Hi everyone, I'm so glad I can relate toa lot of you out there, sho suffer from major depresssion. I have been recently diagnosed about a few months ago. I feel like I"m in a nightmare, and it doens't want to end! I'm scared, and just don't feeel like doine anything. I hate people who think Im just weak or crazy! They don't know how it feels! so who are they to judge? I"m always tired and just don't feel like talking or doing anything. I also suffer from panic disorder, which is horrible! I always hope and pray that one morning I can wake up, and all of this will be over, but it's so hard, I can't do it. All the anti depressants they've prescribed me have been useless, they make me feel worse! I hate this! And for the first time in my life, I have even thought of suicide. I can honestly say  I haven't done it, only because I have two beautiful daughters, I see there faces, and I can't bring myself to do that to them, but I can't take it anymore! Please God, help us all who suffer from this terrible disease. I hope one day for all of us, that will. come true. I hardly eat, and lost a lot of weight. I hate this, I'm so sick and tired! When will it all end? God bless everyone, and goodluck to all!

Can't see the light,even though I want to - triste - Nov 27th 2008

Though I have not been properly diagnosed from a therapist,I have done research; the various symptoms I'am experiencing and I too suffer with  severe depression.Overeating mostly junk: total lack of concern about my appearance,I no longer enjoy being around acquaintances as I once did.This may sound odd but it almost seems as though I enjoy being in the dumps.Lord,I wish this was not a factor of my life. I also avoid going outdoors unless I definitely must venture out there.I feel like an alien amongst the humans.I have grown overwhelmingly lonely,I mean the partner I 'am normally feel disgust for  I now feel the need to be loved by him like never before.He ignores me AND I just feel betrayed and lovelorn.I cry like always but this is nothing new I've wept frequently since the young age of 8or 9.My mother was a big contributor to my emotional and physical problems.I'am glad that I had somewhere to vent about my pathetic life.I 'am currently looking for a professional to maybe put me on meds to control my moods and get my life back on track,i forgot to mention I also have been unemployed for about 7months this has been a major problem seking employment when I'am too sad or sleepy or numerous other excuses to get outdoors.I feel for everyone who is experiencing this because people think I'am exaggerating or just plain full of crap.

Is there a forum to go to. - - Nov 18th 2008
I've read all the stories and wish I could comment on some. I know exactly how most of you feel. Lost, empty,don't want to do anything,want to leave my husband because he really doesn't understand. I'm not working because of this and that is filling me with anxiety. This is crazy. Life is too short to sit and let this crap take a hold of me. So why am I sitting and waiting for it to go away. I wish there truely was a permanent fix to MDD. All I can say is tell yourself it will be ok and hopefully it will. Good luck to all. There are people who care we just have to find them..

how bad is major depression having an effect on my physical state - - Nov 17th 2008

hello, I was diagnosed unipolar when I was 14. I am 31 now and have hit a wall in regard to my depression and day to day health/ well being. I am overwhelmed with depression, isolation, and hoplessness but I am also experiencing physical health problems such as having to urinate all the time. I am told this can be atrributed to my depressed state. can anyone relate to this and give me advice as to a regiment of therapy or medication that helped with their problems of this nature? I am no longer employed due to the magnitude of these problems and could use any advice.  thanks

depression/depersonalization question - J - Nov 10th 2008

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone else feels like they no longer connect with the world around them. This is just my experience, but I had been depressed for a few years a few years back. At that time I was at least able to understand that I am down.. I don't like myself compared to those that are around me. I'm not sure what happened to me in the years following; Could it have been the pot I smoked? I'm not sure, but I have been in a souless state ever since. Emotionally I feel like a psycho that has no emotions, and because of that it is hard to keep myself together mentally. It's as if I'm in a movie and the people around me carry no life significance. I am dead inside but because my mind is still going and trying to piece everything together I am psychotic. It's like I've completely lost touch with the energy that exists everywhere. Instead of being anxious about things I'm completely relaxed and careless because It's as if I don't exist. Nearly anything could happen to me and it wouldn't effect me. This is all very scary, and I think I often scare the people around me because I'll seem relaxed but then when they talk to me I come out with a superficial wide eyed response. I never have something I truly want to say because I feel so completely empty inside.

 I don't mean to be such a downer but I just wanted to know if this complete disconnection is a part of major depression or am I dealing with a different mental illness?

Its hopeless..... - Morris Roebuck II - Nov 8th 2008

Hello to all, I would like to find out what is wrong with me. I don't sleep at night, and if I do. Its sleep at 3am and back up at 5am the latest 6am. But most nights I'm awake, never sleeping no matter how hard I've tried to go to sleep. Other times I'll fall asleep without recollection of even going to sleep. I'm 26, living in fear that one day, I might do something terrible to myself or someone else. I've searched for answers all of 4 years now and haven't been satisfied with results. I know I should consult a physician, but I haven't the money for that, nor the support from my family. I'm in a relationship with a wonderful woman. She seems to be the only individual that understands my desire to find some answers. Not even my family, including father, mother, brothers, and so on, don't believe I have some sort of condition(s). Everytime or anytime I bring it to the table, it's shot down with subject avoidance, or complete denial. Most of the time, I'd rather be reclusive and not bothered by anyone. Yeah, I tried to interact with the outside world. But its difficult when I don't know who/what I will be that day. I have suicidal thoughts, low self esteem(fluxuating confidence), sleep rarely, not hungry at all thru the day unless I haven't eaten for days, hygiene isn't a factor, and nor is health. Its almost like I have this uncontrollable death wish or something. I'm a uninsured, unemployed, 26 year old, afro-american male, I have a family of my own, and I would like to be there for them. Mentally, as well as physically. But the feeling of sad, mad or or any other negative emotion keeps me from performing for my old lady, or playing with my children. I need help is anyone out there, please. My family getting involved in this journey for knowledge of my condition(s), is hopeless. I need an outside source, a physician or therapist preferrably. To contact me on a more personal level. Please email me at me_roebuck2@yahoo.com. Thank you reader(s), for taking the time to read a small insert about me. 

feeling angry instead of helpless - steven - Oct 28th 2008
In my depression,I feel extremely irritated and angry as opposed to feeling helpless and hopeless.The most petty and minor things piss me off.Since I have been diagnosed recently with MDD ,and studying the symptoms,I realize I have had MDD my entire life,my parents had it,and at least 95% of the people I have ever known have it.Most people self-medicate with alcohol to deaden their dysfunctional lives.People simply do not how to communicate their true feelings,for they will be mocked,and they certainly will.My advice would be to look in the mirror to find the only person who truly can help you,for everyone is truly on their own.

It can be better - janna - Oct 6th 2008

I am coming out of a year + long episode of major depression and a suicide attempt. I am going to do everything I can to keep myself healthy. I have had periods of depression and suicidal thoughts since early childhood, but this last event was the worst.  There is no extended family to support me, my husband is so narcissistic that he only worries about his needs being met.  I found that friends were fair weather. It never occurred to me that anyone would help me through this. It took me 3 days to organize my thoughts and manage enough concentration to find a psychitrist and a therapist. It has taken what seemed like super human effort on my part to make the appointments.  With the help of medication and therapy I have finally broken out of the black fog. Just as important, I have gained insight into my behavior and choices that trigger depression. I lost 30# this last year because I didnt have the energy or desire to eat most of the time.  I have now found that following a diet high in protein and complex carbs, taking a B complex vitamin, and exercising practically wiped out the anxiety I was experiencing. I am not saying that will work for anyone else, though. I have started volunteering to be around other people. I will never again just lie down and let depression overcome me without giving it a good fight. For every question there is an answer, but it takes motivation. Relief for the pain of depression is a huge motivator.

JUST ME - - Oct 6th 2008

This doesn't really seem like a discussion page, more like a venting page which is in itself theraputic.  Anyways.... I have been in a serious funk since the first of the year.  I tried to tell my doctor in the fall of last year that something was wrong.  I didn't feel right.. Please help me... long story short.... I quit the job that I had been striving for my whole life and proceded to go into the abyss of some sort of  deep depression.  I couldn't leave my house nor did I want to and I especially didn't want to speak with anyone besides my husband. It's been 10 months now.  I am so much better than what I was in Feb or Mar but I am still not the same.  I am chronically exhausted and have no desire to do anything. 

In retrospect I am trying to figure out what is wrong with me.  i remember as early as 10 yrs old feelings of aloneness and depression.  The first thing I did when i went to college was go to the free health and see if someone could help me.  Nothing... I have gone to the doctors over the years ... tests run... everything is fine.. except for me... I'm not fine.  13 yrs.  ago I experienced something of the same thing.  I went to the doctors because I knew something was not right.  I went to a chiropractor because the last thing I want to do is take meds.  I remember lying on the bed crying and telling him i felt like I was going crazy.. He just looked at me and walked out of the room.  i left and about 3 weeks later, I completely freaked out... kicked my beloved husband out and did things that i will never forgive myself for.  I nearly lost my marriage and my children.  I know that with God's help I was restored completely... but here I am again... 13 yrs later... experiencing the same feelings and experiencing the same reaction from doctors and experiencing the same weird freak out that changes the course of my life.  I just don't get it.  period.  I dont' get it.  I am not revoecer yet from this one.  I long to be happy and free.  I have a lot to give to this world .. especially when I am feeling great.  But those days are few and far between and what ends up happening now is that I just don't want anyone else to have to experience my negativity so I just don't want to be around anyone. 

I know I have suffered with chronic fatigue because I have journals from 30 yrs ago where I just state how tired I always am an it is the truth. I am always tired yet all my blood work is perfect.  I don't think anyone will answer this but thanks for being here so that I could write about my stupid experience with depression.  i absolutely hate it and somehow I am going to conquer it... I just don't want it to be when I turn 60 or 70..  Know what I mean?

enough - - Jul 25th 2008

give me a reason to want to carry on as i could give you more than you have ever imagined so to br to the point if i could find a way that suits me then i will end my pain

Whay's wrong with me? - Matt - Jun 28th 2008
I have a college degree, but seem to keep making poor choices. In my mind, I know I am very bright and capable, but sometimes I get so down I can't even go to work. I do things that are against my value system. My parents have suggested I am depressed, but I keep thinking I can work things out myself. I want to get out of this rut by myself, but perha-ps I need help/

All too familiar - Michelle - Jun 12th 2008

I only had to read a few before I figured out that these people really do know what I'm going through. I was diagnosed with MDD almost 10 yrs ago. When I told my Mom, she was angry with me. She just told me that I didn't know how to deal with things and that a little pill wouldn't help. So, I quit taking them and tried to "deal". That didn't work at all- I slipped so far down that I didn't see any light at all and felt I had no choice but to end it all. My husband at the time agreed with my Mother, so I felt completely and utterly alone. Was I crazy? Was the way I was feeling really my fault? Could I ever be happy again? It wasn't until I found a doctor who really listened to me that finally helped me out of that deep dark hole. He told me that besides the new medication, I also needed a strong support system of people that understood, or at least tried to understand, to help me regain the self-esteem and image I had lost. I have found that! My new husband takes a vested interest in making sure I feel good and am happy physically, but also emotionally and mentally. He never makes me feel like I'm not dealing with something when I start to take that ride down the rollar coaster. I've hit rock bottom with him and he's there to support me in whatever way I need- even if it's just me calling him in to change the channel because I just can't get up. My meds don't work as well as I'd like them too, but I couldn't handle the side effects of several others, so I'll take what I can get. Loved ones- stand by with an eager and helping hand- because there's nothing worse than looking for that outstretched hand and finding nothing. For those out there that think they may have a problem or even to the families of those suffering, keep the faith!

Im scared - Jan - Jun 8th 2008

I've been through a hell of a lot during my life, but not as much as some people. I've been getting more and more depressed over the past 5 years but just thought it was me being weak because I can always think of lots of people who are worse off than me and think I ought to be able to focus on the positive things I've got. But recently I've become unable to do that. Because I'm a teacher I've been trying just to work and work and work and do everything to be perfect, but that broke down last year and I snapped at some kids who were being horrible and had to go home. I went to my doctor and was put on antidepressants. The school said they didnt want me back until I was better of course. That just made me feel guilty and useless. I went to occupational health for a session and then the person I saw reported back to me head teacher everything Id said. They treat me differently at school because Im not stable -- they really are watching me, its not just my imagination. Im worried now because Ive just gone into another 'down' and am having to pretend to be ok because if I cant work I wont be able to pay the bills and Ill lose my house. On top of that my husband is fed up with me. Ive tried really hard to be like a normal person outside the home -- talk positive, smile, carry on but Im running out of steam. What can I do?

When wiil i feel normal again - Brian - May 14th 2008
I've been diagnosed with severe depression about 4mths ago,i've felt like my world has totally turned upside down,I have severe social anxiety and depression i've been like this for 2an1/2 to 3yrs now and it's really affecting my life. I always thought that i was weak or just feeling blue but the feelins never went away .I finnaly went to get help and it's been a see saw ever since trying to find the right meds that work for me.I'm at the point where i have not been able to go to work ,i don't enjoy anything in life that i used to and i really don't care about anything i just sit in my room all day an stare at the walls wondering what the hell is wrong with me.I hope to be me again someday.

Depression Hurts - - May 7th 2008

I can't sleep and don't fell hungry during the day. I am convinced that my sleep has eveything to do with my depression. I have has depression of 5 years and take 3 different meds to help with the sleep and mood. I hate that I have to take these pills, it's not fair that other people don't need them and I do. I have found out the hard way that not taking your meds can spell alot of insomnia and more depression. Hang in ther everyone and keep doing what your doctor tells you to do.

Editor's Note:  There is effective psychotherapy for depression these days, most commonly available in the form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression.  It involves no medicine at all, has no side effect, and has been scientifically proven to be as effective or more effective than leading anti-depressant medications.  This may be something for you to explore if you are dissatisfied with medications for depression. 

Is There Hope? - james - Feb 9th 2008
Ive been dealing with depression for a long time and never realized I had it. I just thought that maybe what was going on with me is just something normal due to bad incidents in my life. I just recently realized that I was getting worse and how it has been affecting my marriage for the last 17 years. I am now on medication but it doesnt seem to help enough, I just want to feel normal and happy for once in my life, instead of feeling worthless, sad and thinking about ending my life. If you have symptoms of depression please get help soon, I wish I had sooner.

Difficulty accepting Depression Diagnosis - - Dec 18th 2007

For those who struggle taking antidepressants:

I have been wishing that one day I will snap out of my depressed state on my own. I really struggle admiting that I have to take antidepressants in order to feel well. My therapist put things in perspective by asking me one day, "If you were diabetic and needed insulin would you take it?" ..."Of course I would. But people understand diabetes, most people do not understand depression. How could you if you have never experienced it?

I now make my medicine part of my routine, I am hoping that it will get me to a "normal state". What is a "normal" day to most people is a great day without depression to those of us who struggle with this daily.

Find comfort in knowing you are not alone!

why me? - paige - Dec 17th 2007
i have been living with depression since i hit puberty, 20 years ago.  i have been on almost every antidepressent out there. none have really worked but now im taking cymbalta. except for the crazy side effects i actually feel a little better. i always wonder why i was cursed with this alliment. i would love to wake up one day and be happy. everyday is a struggle. i feel for anyone else who suffers from this. we can't give up though, because one day they will figure out what causes this and we can all be free.

writing - Cade - Dec 17th 2007
i believe my father might have depression problems but there is one thing i am unsure of. He writes the same sentance, if you want to call it that, over and over again. The problem is it is a jumble of letters and makes no sense and there are very few vowels. He has done this for the past few years and when asked about it he says that it is a abbrevation for a to do list. I assume it is not. He continues to do it and leaves the notebook open to the pages. I have no idea what this means. Is there a name for this? Help is appreceiated.

Like to be myself again - - Nov 13th 2007
I've had depression for over six years. I driving me crazy. I've lost interest in everything. I don't sleep well. I wake up with headache, blood pressure and a host of other ailments. I would darely like to get back my life once more. Can anyone help

I am here - - Oct 20th 2007
or even other issues but we all deal with them differently. No one walks in my shoes nor I in theirs but i am not different.

Endorphins - - Oct 20th 2007
Walking at a fast pace along with medication can ease depression symptoms. It has helped me tremendously.

Where to go from here? - Renee - Oct 10th 2007

I have been diagnosed with chronic depression for at least 20 yrs. I have tried all the SSRI's, NI's, and they no longer work.

 Does anyone have a suggestion as the dr I see is not up with meds and I can't afford Psyciatry. I have started not bathing for days within the past year. And about 5 yrs ago started doing things to sabotage my life, ie. money is in the bank but i purposefully don't pay bills. I know I should, but keep putting it off. I have almost ruined my life with this behavior.

Help? - uhm...i dont wanna say... - Oct 3rd 2007
uhm..im getten some of these symptoms n stuff...ive alredy been disgnosed with depression but not any particular type of it....im kinda worried i feel like a syco n i cant tell anyone because then theyl go n tell everyone n theyl all look at me funny n think im a stupid emo attention seeker...sumtimes i think i can hear people blaming me for deagons death and other times they really are.... i just want help without feeling like an idiot n bein put in a strate jacket...please dont try to track me down or anything i just need advice on what to do because everyone i know hates me and look at me like im a piece of shite...just reply to my  email address

I am just getting out of a psychotic phase - Miss M - Sep 12th 2007

It is so eerie to read these symptoms because they are exactly what I've been experiencing on and off for the past couple of weeks now.  I hope they pass and never come back.

I remember believing that people next door were having a satanic mass and where going to kidnap me for sacrifice!  I knew logically that it was a load of bs, but I still got up and hurried inside and locked the door.  I got really paranoid and worried...

I also believed that my partner was keeping secrets; and that I could hear people talking about me in a nasty way.