What causes clinical depression? Major Clinical Depression Information
by Ask a Healer
Suggested Supplements:
Natural Depression Remedies
Question on alternative health care and emotional healing: I came across your site and I just had to ask this question. Depression is such a common phenomenon. There are some depressions that are mild to moderate, and others that are considered major and clinical. The type of depression I want to ask you about is this latter - major clinical depression. What could cause this severe level of depression, and what can be done to help it or heal it?
Healing Facilitation Response: Yes, you are correct that depression is a common phenomenon although simple depression is not usually debilitating. A temporary bout with simple depression is something most people have gone thru at some point in their lives. Depression only becomes a health threat when it lingers too long or becomes so severe that quality of life suffers or ability to function occurs.
The mental health industry has classified several different levels of depression, including depression that results from lack of sunshine, a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. Typically, SAD affects people during the winter months and especially in places in the world where sunlight is greatly diminished during the winter months. Light therapy has been helpful for those suffering with Seasonal Affective Disorder. Other types of depression include major clinical depression, which is also called major depressive disorder, psychotic depression, hormonal depression / menopausal depression, postpartum depression (affects new mothers) and psychotic depression. Learn more about Psychotic Depression
What is Clinical Depression?
You may receive a diagnosis of clinical depression if experience any combination of the symptoms of depression occur to the degree that they singificantly interfere with your ability to function in day to day life. Clinical depression may become as life-threatening a condition as cancer or heart disease. If you are experiencing feelings of depression so severe as to include thoughts of dying or of killing yourself, please seek professional help. When symptoms of depression reach levels that endanger the life of the person, either through suicidal thoughts or attempts or just depression to the point that the person can no longer carry out their day to day functions, it is called clinical depression. Learn more about Clinical Depression
Once a diagnosis of major clinical depression has been given, the standard western medicine treatment will definitely include prescription drugs. Additionally, if it is assessed that your depression may be severe enough to endanger your well-being or the well-being of others, you may be advised to enter a facility for treatment. While I do not personally believe in reliance on anti-depressants long-term, I realize there are times when short-term use may be helpful, if monitored by a caring mental health professional. If you feel you may have more than just normal depression, and might be clinically depressed, please consider a mental health evaluation from a qualfied professional.
Please note that my own approach to addressing physical, emotional and mental challenges includes spiritual components which may or may not not resonate with you. Do what is best for yourself, of course.
Part 2: What is depression - symptoms of depression
Part 3: What causes depression
Part 4: My Personal Battles with depression
Mental Health Disclaimer: Depression is a serious mental health challenge and anyone who has symptoms of depression at a level that is disrupting their quality of life should be evaluated by a mental health professional. The information contained in this alternative health care / emotional healing article on depression can never replace an in-person consultation with a mental health professional or mental health counselor. Any action taken based on the contents found in this educational healthcare information is at the sole discretion of the reader. Please consult with your chosen mental health professional regarding emotional struggles and mental health challenges.
