Major Depression
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Major Depression is characterized by feelings of sadness or being "down in the dumps." Approximately 10-25% of women and 5-9% of men will experience Major Depression at some time in their lives. It is more common in an individual that has a first level relative with depression. There are many types of depression, including Chronic Depression, Depression with Psychotic Features, Atypical Features, or Catatonic Features. There is also depression related to Postpartum. Up to 15% of individuals with Major Depressive Disorder die by suicide with those with general medical conditions, such as stroke, cancer, heart disease, or diabetes being more at risk for depression than the general population. Major Depressive Episodes run their course and end in about 2/3 of the cases. In the other 1/3 of the cases, depression is only partially corrected, or is not corrected at all. One year after depression has been diagnosed, approximately 40% of individuals still report symptoms of depression despite treatment. About the Author: Dr. Catherine Swanson Cain, PhD, LMFT provides counseling and therapy to families of young children with behavior problems or mental health disabilities. She also provides consultation and training to educators, child care providers, and professionals on a variety of behavioral health issues. |