In the past, the understanding was that depression is primarily a condition that affected women, in fact, there were medical statistics that showed women were twice as likely to suffer from depression as men. This is now being denounced and it's thought that the numbers may be more equal.

Recent studies have also shown that depression is not just a state of mind but may also contribute to medical ailments such as osteoporosis and heart disease. The good news is that if you suffer from depression you can beat it.

Please refer to the links provided below for in-depth information on depression including the following:

• understanding depression
• depression statistics
• treatment options.

Depression.com

Uplift Program.com

DBSA: Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance.

Causes of Depression: (multiple sources)

Depression may not be brought on by one single factor and may also have nothing to do with an event or personal tragedy. One fact does hold true though for those suffering depression; seeking help and gained understanding is the path to healing. There are many potential reasons a person may experience depression among some of which are:

• chronic illness
• short or long term trauma
• prolonged negative exposure to a bad job, marriage, etc.
  
• stress
• age
• personality
• medications

Seeking Care for Depression: eMedicinehealth.com (source)

I must admit that what follows came as a shock to me. I've known people in my daily life who suffer from much of what follows and I too, have suffered once or twice in the past. If you feel a few of the following symptoms for more than two or three weeks, please see a doctor and try to gain some understanding about your depressive state. I also strongly encourage you to visit eMedicinehealth.com and also follow any sites they may link to.

You should strongly consider seeking care if you experience: 

• crying spells
• unexplained loss of interest in regular activities
• sleep issues
• low energy
• dramatic weight gain/loss
• irritability

Depression Statistics: Uplift Program (source)

• Between 7% - 15% of all people will experience depression in varying degrees in their lifetime.
• Pre-schoolers experience depression with approx. 4% of which are clinically depressed.
• 41% of women experiencing depression will not seek help due to embarrassment.
• 80% of all people experiencing depression are not currently seeking treatment.
  

If you believe for any reason that you are depressed, the best thing you can do for yourself is not feel embarrassed about it. If you are depressed, the last thing you need is to add to it by feelings of self-doubt or judgmental attitudes. Of the many sources I've reviewed or directly quoted in this article, all agree that treatment is the best option.

Discuss understanding depression.