From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, by Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat
Everybody feels blue sometimes. But depression is different and more severe. And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found about 1 in 10 Americans has symptoms of depression.
CDC researcher Lela McKnight-Eily says those symptoms include weeks of feeling sad or irritable, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, even recurring thoughts of death or suicide.
She also says:
``Depression occurs more frequently in women. We also found that older adults were less likely to report symptoms of current depression, although it is probably under-recognized and under-reported by this group.’’

Learn more at hhs.gov.


Here Are 5 Tips to Help You Deal With Depression (from Sofamilyonline):


1. Consult a specialist that can help you find the best and correct treatments for your state.

2. Tell a loved one. Allow your loved ones to be involved in your road to recovery.

3. Think positive. This is easier said then done. Try to keep an open positive outlook in everything you do.

4. Exercise. Exercise can help to relieve stress and bring out a vibrant attitude.

5. Socialize with happy, positive people. The more time you spend with them the less time you have to feel down.