What is the Definition of Depression?
Depression can be quite a confusing condition. While its prevalence is alarming and it is certainly one of the most popular disorders that affect people, it can still be hard to grasp. Few people would be able to give you a proper depression definition simply because it can be quite challenging to define the term. In truth, depression has two meanings that are closely related but are distinctive and very different. The first depression definition is concerned with the emotion that is similar to sadness.
An intensified feeling of sadness and dejection can be described as depression. The second definition of depression is the medical disorder. Depression is a medical disorder typically characterized by several physiological and psychological changes resulting in symptoms associated with sadness and negativity. Looking at the two depression definitions, you can see that they are closely connected but they are two different things entirely.
What Causes Depression?
The exact cause for the disorder is still unknown but there are certain “triggers” that are known to put a person at risk for developing the condition. The most promising connection that has been established is with certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin. Neurotransmitters are substances 
that help transfer nerve impulses. Serotonin is a specific type of neurotransmitter that is partly responsible for a number of vital processes from temperature regulation to libido. A link has been found on countless occasions where individuals who are depressed tend to have low levels of the neurotransmitter. Most treatments whether conventional or otherwise are concerned with elevating levels of serotonin or stimulating production of the neurotransmitter.
Triggers include trauma, loneliness, nostalgia, drastic changes in lifestyle as well as other health issues such as thyroid gland issues.
What are the symptoms of depression?
Symptoms of the condition include drastic changes in mood and perception, this typically includes passive, negative aspects such as feeling hopeless or worthless, loss of interest and motivation as well as loss of self-control. Physiological aspects include loss of appetite or increased appetite, pains, fatigue and insomnia.
What are the treatments of depression?
The most common treatment is antidepressants. Antidepressants are one of the most demanded drugs in the field of medicine. Besides this cognitive behavioral therapy, talk therapy, acupuncture and a number of other treatments may be recommended.
Despite the serious consequences of the disorder, it can be easily controlled and treated provided adequate treatment is sought.