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What Is Severe or Major Depression?

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.

  1. 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.

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