The Science... An introduction...>>>>of Depression

This video is less than 4 minutes, it is a great visual about depression.

Depression (major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks. 
I have suffered from depression since my grandmother died in June 2003. I did not take care of myself for years. Then 10 years later my mother had a heart attack and died. I was 8 weeks pregnant with her first grandchild. THIS TOOK ME OUT! I was done done. Her dying changed my entire life, my personality, the way I interact with people... my whole life changed. I then was diagnosed with major depressive disorder and anxiety.  I was afraid of the diagnoses. I didn't want anyone to find out that my mind was sick. I developed PTSD after the passing of my mother. But guess what I didn't know it. I recently found out after a lot of therapy-- it makes sense how I was feeling and behaving. Then a little surprise came and his name is Reuben. Reuben was a good baby, but mommy had postpartum depression for a little over a year after his birth. (also embarrassing). I needed help, but this time I got the strength to talk to my doctor. This was life changing. I was prescribed some medicine to help with the depression and anxiety. So, now along with the meds, I also see a therapist and psychiatrist weekly. I want you to be encouraged and I want you to treat your brain like you would fix a broken limb. If you are or think you are depressed, talk to your doctor as soon as you can. Tell your story, get a customized treatment plan and keep pushing!

In females, depression is nearly twice as common among women as men, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Below are some symptoms of depression that tend to appear more often in females:

• irritability
• anxiety
• mood swings
• fatigue
• ruminating (dwelling on negative thoughts)

Also, some types of depression are unique to females, such as:

• postpartum depression
• premenstrual dysphoric disorder

In males, Around 9% of men in the United States have feelings of depression or anxiety, according to the American Psychological Association.
Males with depression are more likely than females to drink alcohol in excess, display anger, and engage in risk-taking as a result of the disorder.
Other symptoms of depression in males may include:

• avoiding families and social situations
• working without a break
• having difficulty keeping up with work and family responsibilities
• displaying abusive or controlling behavior in relationships

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If you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
• Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism
• Irritability
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Decreased energy or fatigue
• Moving or talking more slowly
• Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
• Appetite and/or weight changes
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
• Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8933#symptoms
​https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db303.htm