Depression

It is normal to feel sad, down or blue for brief periods. However, when the sadness lasts for days on end or when you lose your interest, desire or motivation for pleasurable activities, you may be experiencing a clinical depression, also known as Major Depressive Disorder. Clinical depression can be a response to major life events, such as serious illness, job loss or end to an important relationship. But for others, it can seem to come out of the blue. Along with sustained sadness and/or loss of interest are symptoms such as difficulty with sleep, low appetite and/or eating too much, low energy, diminished concentration, feeling worthless and suicidal thoughts and/or attempts.