depression_brochure_2019.docxDid you know?Depression, is a common but serious medical condition, is the primary symptom for almost all behaviour disorders.
Mood and anxiety disorders are among the most common types of mental disorders in Canada and have been shown to have a major impact on the daily lives of those affected. In 2013, an estimated 3 million Canadians (11.6%) aged 18 years or older reported that they had a mood and/or anxiety disorder

There is hope
Depression is the most treatable mental illness. With early diagnosis, intervention and treatment, people can recover and lead fulfilling lives.

Employment and support strategies are available. A local peer support group is available.

Types of depression
Symptoms caused by major depression can vary from person to person, but can include:
 
Anxious distress — depression with unusual restlessness or worry about possible events or loss of control
Melancholic features — severe depression with lack of response to something that used to bring pleasure and associated with early morning awakening, worsened mood in the morning, major changes in appetite, and feelings of guilt, agitation or sluggishness
Atypical features — depression that includes the ability to temporarily be cheered by happy events, increased appetite, excessive need for sleep, sensitivity to rejection, and a heavy feeling in the arms or legs
Psychotic features — depression accompanied by delusions or hallucinations, which may involve personal inadequacy or other negative themes
Catatonia — depression that includes motor activity that involves either uncontrollable and purposeless movement or fixed and inflexible posture
Peripartum onset — depression that occurs during pregnancy or in the weeks or months after delivery (postpartum)
Seasonal pattern — depression related to changes in seasons and reduced exposure to sunlight
 

Causes of Depression

It's not known exactly what causes depression. As with many mental disorders, a variety of factors may be involved, such as:

• Biological differences. People with depression appear to have physical changes in their brains. The significance of these changes is still uncertain but may eventually help pinpoint causes.
• Brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring brain chemicals that likely play a role in depression. Recent research indicates that changes in the function and effect of these neurotransmitters and how they interact with neuro-circuits involved in maintaining mood stability may play a significant role in depression and its treatment.
• Hormones. Changes in the body's balance of hormones may be involved in causing or triggering depression. Hormone changes can result with pregnancy and during the weeks or months after delivery (postpartum) and from thyroid problems, menopause or a number of other conditions.
• Inherited traits. Depression is more common in people whose blood relatives also have this condition. Researchers are trying to find genes that may be involved in causing depression.

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10 common symptoms of depression:

• Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. 
• Loss of interest in daily activities. 
• Appetite or weight changes. 
• Sleep changes. 
• Anger or irritability. 
• Loss of energy. 
• Self-loathing. 
• Reckless behavior. 
• Concentration problems. 
• Unexplained aches and pains. 

Treatment
Treatments for clinical depression are:

• Anti-depressants
• Psychotherapy, or talk therapy
• Shock Therapy (Used if symptoms are severe or medications are ineffective)
• Hospital Stay (Both part-time care, day treatment clinics or psychiatric treatment at a hospital can help keep you calm and safe until your mood improves.)