What is Depression?

• Depressed mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure
• At least four of these additional symptoms:
  Change in appetite or weight, sleep, and psychomotor activity
  Decreased energy
  Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
  Recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation or suicide plans or attempts

Depression can affect many individuals; however, potential factors that raise the likelihood of depression are:

• Biochemistry- Difference or imbalance of chemicals in the brain 
• Genetics- More likely if another family member has depression
• Personality- Low esteem, easily overwhelmed with stress, or higher pessimism
• Environmental Factors- Exposure to violence, neglect, abuse, or poverty

Females are more likely to experience depression over males.

Women are two times more likely to be diagnosed with depression than men.

• Medication
• Psychotherapy
• Exercise
• Find trusted friends or adults