As an undergraduate I majored in psychology and my research  project focused on the subject of depression. As a result, I’ve continued to follow the incidence, prevalence and broad ramifications of depression.

Depression is a state of being, a mood or anxiety disorder that has been common place in society for aeon’s and is increasing during these challenging times.  Employment rates are rising daily. Therefore, one can easily extrapolate the increase in cases of depression.

Although I served as medical personnel in Louisiana after the Katrina/Rita hurricanes, which will be three years  on April 10, depression persists among many survivors.

The number of people who are diagnosed with diabetes is increasing daily. In addition to the diabetes, in many cases, one will also find depression.  In the case of obesity or unhealthy weight gain, it is difficult to say which came first- the obesity or the depression.

There is a broad spectrum of depression, from the ordinary mild depression that waxes and wanes with activities of daily living to clinical depression which requires treatment. There is depression among our armed forces at war and veterans returning home from the war. People with PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) may also have depression months after the traumatic experience; depression among our elderly and also their caregivers; other caregivers of people with chronic illnesses. Also, there is a correlation between heart disease and depression; unemployment depression.

I received the following bit of “ humor for the day”  in my email box yesterday. 

Economy Notice
Due to recent budget cuts and the cost of electricity, gas and oil, as well as current market conditions and the continued decline of the U.S. economy, The Light at the End of the Tunnel has been turned off.

We apologize for the inconvenience

Fortunately, Spring and daylight saving time is approaching and will result in a decrease in the cases of SAD (seasonal affective disorder). In instances of co-morbidity, treating the depression often improves the co-existing illness.

 Women, men and the elderly experience depression differently. It is time depression come out of the dark and into the light. Depression is one of the most treatable illnesses.  

What has been your experience regarding depression? Share a story. Tweet me or leave your comments below.