line).It has been suggested that depression comes from a chemical imbalance in the brain, but now it seems the opposite is true. According to Psychology Information Online, the chemical imbalance is a result of the depression. It has been found that the chemical imbalances that occur during depression usually disappear when the patient completes psychotherapy for depression, without taking any medications to correct the imbalance.The symptoms of depression may vary from person to person, and also depend on the severity of the depression. According to drkoop.com there are nine classic symptoms of depression: 1. Depressed mood for most of the day 2. Disturbed appetite or change in weight 3. Disturbed sleep 4. Psychomotor retardation or agitation 5. Loss of interest in previously pleasurable activities; inability to enjoy usual hobbies or activities 6. Fatigue or loss of energy 7. Feelings of worthlessness; excessive and/or inappropriate guilt 8. Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly 9. Morbid or suicidal thoughts or actions According to drkoop.com a major depressive episode is present if five or more of the preceding nine symptoms are present during the same two-week period. At least one of the five symptoms must be either a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure.There are many different ways to treat depression, but the first step is to correctly diagnosis it. According to Psychology Information Online most people never seek proper treatment, or seek treatment but they are misdiagnosed with physical illness. With proper treatment, nearly 80% of those with depression can make significant improvement in their mood and life adjustment. Psychotherapy and medication are the two primary treatment approaches. Antidepressant medications can make psychotherapy more effective, for some people. Someone who is too depressed to talk, for instance, will not benefit from psychotherapy or counseling; but often, the right medication will ...
