Depression Is Sadness Turned Malignant

Three million people in the UK at any given time suffer from depression.
Figures show that middle-aged women suffer more from depression and anxiety than any other group.
But there are no good explanations why.
Before adolescence the incidence is equal.
After puberty women are twice as likely to suffer than men.

Depression is sadness turned malignant.
Sadness is a perfectly normal emotion and its function is to restore one’s emotional balance after the loss of something or someone.
But just as normal cells can become cancerous, sadness can get out of control.

Doctors diagnose depression if you have five or more of the following symptoms:
A depressed mood for most of the day.
Diminished interest or pleasure.
Significant gain or loss of weight.
Inability to sleep or sleeping too much.
Reduced control of bodily movements.
Fatigue.
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
Inability to think or concentrate.
Thoughts of death or suicide.

The most common cure is antidepressants,
Which should be combined with cognitive behavioural therapy.
And exercise, which releases endorphins.