Depression may be mild, moderate or severe. Severe depression is marked by a number of intense symptoms which last for an extended period of time and significantly curtail normal functioning.
Identification
Severe depression (a form of major depression) may be marked by loss of functioning that affects even the most basic aspects of life--from neglect of personal hygiene and daily care (eating, taking medications), to a loss of social abilities.
Significance
Severe depression may require intervention. Medication, hospitalization, therapy or assistance from friends or family may be required to help a person through a period of severe depression, until he can resume care for himself.
Misconceptions
Depression can be both an inherited and a learned behavior. It may be triggered by illness, stress and even medications meant to help other physical ailments.
Prevention/Solution
Depression symptoms can be improved or reversed through stress relief (meditation, exercise), proper self care (good nutrition, adequate sleep) and finding social outlets to become engaged in.
Warning
If a depressed person feels suicidal or makes suicidal remarks, seek help immediately from a medical professional.
Tags: Severe depression, depression marked