Depression is a deep sadness that has a significant impact on the person's daily activity. Depression may include a loss of feeling or interest or maybe the inability to do regular activities. Several factors may play a part in the onset of depression. These include a genetic or family history of depression, psychological or emotional vulnerability to depression, biological factors such as imbalances in brain chemistry and in the endocrine/immune systems, or a major stress in the person's life.
Depressive symptoms may be the result of another illness that shares the same symptoms, such as lupus or hypothyroidism. Depression may be a reaction to another illness, such as cancer or a heart attack. Finally, depression may be caused by an illness itself, such as a stroke, where neurological changes have occured.
Source: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
For more information visit the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health website at http://www.camh.net/ or call the Community Crisis Centre at (519) 973-4435.
DISCLAIMER: Information on this site is not to be used for diagnosis, treatment or referral services. HDGH, its healthcare team, CMHA and CAMH do not provide diagnostic, treatment or referral services through the Internet. Individuals should contact their personal physician, and/or their local addiction or mental health agency for further information.