Why Clinical Depression Is So Common & How To Treat It

Affecting literally millions of people around the world, clinical depression is also known as "major depression disorder". But this type of depression is far, far worse than just feeling a little bit sad now and again, suffering with clinical depression means you are really plumbing the depths of despair. So how widespread is it?

Its been calculated that clinical depression may affect as much as 16% of the world's population. That's a lot of people! Also, nearly twice as many females as males need treatment for depression although this tales off when women reach their fifties (not long to wait then!). Depression tends to begin, on average, when people reach their twenties.

Signs & Symptoms of Depression

These are many and varied. They can range from anxiety and general pessimism to an overwhelming feeling of loss. There can be a rapid gain or loss in weight, sleep patterns may be disturbed and it may even get so extreme that the depressed individual starts to self-harm and even develop suicidal tendencies. Please take note that if you, dear reader, should start to develop any of these symptoms then please seek professional help.

The general treatment that is provided to those who are suffering is a range of medications and dietary supplements. Obviously the medication will be prescribed by a doctor but right now you can go and get a range of dietary supplements over the counter at your local pharmacist or even supermarket. The omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil have been found to be extremely helpful as well as St John's Wort, Ginko Biloba and Magnesium. But I stress once again if you feel that you may be suffering from clinical depression then please, seek a professional opinion.