What is commonly called depression exists on a continuum from a formal diagnosis, such as Major Depressive Disorder, to bouts with the blues.  Sometimes depressive symptoms are caused by biochemical factors, but more often these symptoms are caused by circumstantial factors that precipitate emotions, such as disappointment, disillusionment, confusion, or anger, which in turn, can result in depression. Whether biochemical or circumstantial, counselling can help.

Markers for depression include:

• sadness
• tearfulness
• irritability
• loss of concentration
• hopelessness
• lack of energy
• lack of motivation
• loss of pleasure
• changes in sleep
• changes in appetite
• loss of concentration
• thoughts of suicide  (While not always present in depression, suicidality should be taken very seriously and should be immediately evaluated by a psychologist or medical professional.)