Sign In



Remember Me

MedlinePlus®

A service of the National Library of Medicine.

Resource Library

Powered by:   Print This Page   Add To My Folder

This information is provided by an independent source. Merck & Co., Inc. is not responsible for this content. Please discuss any and all treatment options with your healthcare professional. The manufacturer of a product generally has the most complete information about that product.

Krames Index Print This Article Print This Article
Depression
                        Page 1 of 15      Next  >
                               Last Page  >>

Depression: Not Just The Blues
The blues are a natural, inescapable part of living. Feeling unhappy is a normal reaction to a loss or other bad experience in life. However, a blue period that won't let up or keeps coming back may be a sign of depression, an illness that involves changes in brain chemicals. Depression affects the way you feel, think, and act. Depression drains all the joy out of life and leaves you feeling helpless, worthless, and unable to cope. But, with help, you should be able to enjoy life again.

2a1581
"I tried to pretend nothing
was wrong, but inside
I was miserable."

Depressed people may hide their
feelings from others. Often they don't
understand what’s going on inside
them or don't realize that they can
get help.
2b1581
"I hated myself for not being
able to snap out of it. I
thought, 'I'm just weak."'

Depression is not a sign of weakness or lack of self-control. Like an ulcer or diabetes, depression is an illness that needs treatment.


 
                        Page 1 of 15      Next  >
                               Last Page  >>

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care.
Only your doctor can diagnose and treat a medical problem.
©2001 The StayWell Company, 1100 Grundy Lane, San Bruno, CA 94066-3030.
www.staywell.com 800 333-3032. All rights reserved.
Print This Page   Add To My Folder

Last Revised 07/2009 20351091(1)-12/03-EBS-CON