What is Depression? A depressive illness is a "whole-body" illness involving your body, mood, thoughts and behavior. It affects the way you eat and sleep, the way you feel about yourself, and the way you think about things. A depressive illness is not a passing blue mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away. People with a depressive illness cannot merely "pull themselves together" and get better. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years. Appropriate treatment, however, can help over 80 percent of those who suffer from depression. Depressive illnesses come in different forms just as do other illnesses, such as heart disease. However, within these types there are variations in the number of symptoms, their severity, and persistence. Check with your doctor if you need more information about your type of depressive illness. Major depression is manifested by a combination of symptoms (see symptom list) that interfere with the ability to work, sleep, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. These disabling episodes of depression can occur once, twice, or several times in a lifetime. NIMH Publication                    RECOMMENDED READING FROM THE PSYSTORE: Essential Guide to Depression: American Medical Association (The American Medical Association Essential Guides Series) by Angela R. Perry (Editor) Our Price: $11.20 "In clear, nontechnical language, the American Medical Association explains the latest findings on depression, the complex mood disorder that affects nearly 17 million Americans each year. Distinguishing depression from the everyday 'blues,' this comprehensive guide provides solid, detailed answers." -- Book Description For a selection of books on this topic, visit the Psystore. ** All prices subject to change without notice