Depression : your questions answered
(Book)

Guide to health literacy

Common misconceptions about depression

Questions and answers. General information. What is depression ; Are there different types of depression? ; What is the difference between being depressed and being unhappy? ; How widespread is depression? ; Who is most likely to develop depression? ; How does depression change across the life span? ; What are some of the most common signs that someone is depressed? ; Are there other medical conditions that can mimic depression? ; What is learned helplessness? ; How far back in history does depression go? ; Why do so many people with depression try to hide their symptoms? ; Is there a depression epidemic?

Causes and risk factors. Why do individuals become depressed? ; Is depression linked to trauma? ; Why is depression so common in young people? ; What causes postpartum depression? ; What causes seasonal affective disorder? ; Is depression caused by a brain disorder? ; Is depression genetic? ; Can bullying lead to depression? ; How is grief related to depression? ; Is depression linked to learly childhood problems? ; Is chronic pain linked to depression? ; Why is depression so common in the military? ; Are sexual minorities more vulnerable to depression?

Consequences of depression. Can depression lead to drug or alcohol abuse? ; Why are depression and anxiety often seen together? ; How does depression affect families? ; What are the real costs of depression to society? ; Are people with depression at risk for suicide?

Culture, media, and depression. How do different cultures view depression? ; How are goth and emo subcultures linked to depression? ; Can social media make depression worse? ; Why is there such stigma surrounding depression?

Treatment, prevention, and life after depression. How can people with depression find help? ; What are some of the most common forms of treatment for children and adults dealing with depression? ; What is a treatment plan? ; How do antidepressant medications work? ; Are there risks associated with taking antidepressant medication? ; What are some of the alternatives to drug treatment? ; Do herbal and dietary remedies work in treating depression? ; What is cognitive behavioral therapy? ; What is mindfulness therapy? ; What is interpersonal therapy? ; Who should receive group therapy? ; What can parents do to help children who are depressed? ; Can online support groups help with depression? ; Does the risk of depression ever go away? ; How effective are awareness campaigns in helping people who are depressed? ; Can people who have been depressed learn to move on with their lives?

Case studies

Glossary

Directory of resources.