Depression is a complex disease that can remain hidden unless someone who knows the signs looks. Many people don't even know they're suffering from depression, and 15 million of those people are in America. 2/3 of those never seek help. Why is depression hard to spot? The answer is easy. Occasional issues like sadness are common and have nothing to do with depression . This makes it hard to tell the difference between a normal mood and depression.

Sadness is part of living. The mid life crisis at about 40 is common. There are many who see this as some milestone of reflection that causes us to ponder and evaluate our lives. This may be depressing. That's not depression. Depression isn't a short term feeling. Depression is consistent and constant and will progress if not treated. It may require years to get a handle on this illness.

Typical symptoms of depression can be irregular sleeping or eating habits. This isn't to say a sleepless night or a day of over eating are symptoms, rather it would be an ongoing pattern. People suffering from depression become loners. Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness aren't unusual. They feel upset the more lonely they become. They may want to reach out for help but cannot bring themselves to do so. They may find it hard to relate to those around them. Where they once may have been the life of the party they may now be barely noticeable. These are symptoms of the early stages.

Depression in later stages creates a seeming incompatibility between the victim and other people. School and work are impacted because they stop taking part in discussions and activities. Dealing with others, even dealing with themselves becomes nearly impossible. Life loses purpose and any light at the end of the tunnel so they begin to think about death. Early detection is a key to avoiding this terrible end. There is help available for those who suffer depression. The proper care and treatment can return the victims from suffering to normalcy. Ongoing symptoms of depression should prompt you to look for help. It's a matter of life or death.

What really is depression and how can you spot it? If you suspect a person close to you may be suffering from classical depression, it is important to have an idea as to what kind of symptoms to look for.