Minor depression is not `minor`,

[janbear]

Minor depression is not `minor`,

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Minor depression is not `minor`, it can easily become a major depression

Fogel J, Eaton WW, Ford DE, et al. Minor depression as a predictor of the first onset of major depressive disorder over a 15-year follow-up. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2006;113:36-43.

People with minor depression have some but not all symptoms of a major depression. Mostly, symptoms are also milder. One of the typical symptoms for diagnosing minor depression has to be 'sadness' or 'lack of interest in activities'. Although called minor depression, its impact on a person's life can be very negative. Poor school or work performance, reduced social activities and sleep irregularities are a few examples.

What are the chances that minor depression leads to major depression? In order to answer this question, 1634 persons were interviewed and followed up for 15 years. 101 persons had a minor depression and about 19% of them developed a major depression during these 15 years. People with minor depression were six times more likely to develop major depression during this period compared with those who didn't have the symptoms of minor depression.

People suffering from minor depression often do not take their condition serious and do not seek treatment. However, it puts people at a higher risk of developing major depression and that is why it is important that appropriate treatment starts early on. Screening for depression should therefore be part of any doctor's examination. This may help delay or even prevent major depression.


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Prescott
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Age: 57
Joined: 07 Dec 2005
Posts: 542
Location: Prescott AZ

Posted: Tue Mar 21, 2006 10:38 am Post subject:

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Quote:One of the typical symptoms for diagnosing minor depression has to be 'sadness' or 'lack of interest in activities'. Although called minor depression, its impact on a person's life can be very negative. Poor school or work performance, reduced social activities and sleep irregularities are a few examples.



I can relate to this one I have been fighting this battle for years. Recovery
has been my only saving grace.


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"Keep It Simple" Love in Recovery John S.