Major Depression

Description
Major Depression involves disturbances in mood, activity, appetite, energy, and interest. Studies show over 19 million Americans are affected each year. It is the leading cause of disability in developed countries

Symptoms

 Fatigue Irritability Disturbances in sleep Low self-esteem Sadness or crying for no reason Chronic physical complaints Negative thinking Inability to concentrate Feeling worthless or guilty

Causes
Studies of the brain reveal differences in chemical levels, as well as genetic factors, influence the development of major depression. A trigger can be the loss of a job, loss of loved one, physical illness, chronic stress or financial and relationship problems.

Treatment
Medication: Antidepressants such as Zoloft, Paxil, Remeron, Lexapro, Elavil

 Dynamic psychotherapy
 

Bipolar Disorder

Description
Bipolar Disorder or manic depression is characterized by cycling of moods, from extreme highs in the manic phase to extreme lows in its depressive stage. A recent survey by NARSAD shows an incidence as high as 3.5% of Americans suffer from this disorder.

Symptoms

 Inflated self-concept Shopping sprees Little need for sleep Increased sex drive Anger and rage Pressured speech Memory distortion Profound sadness Suicidal thoughts

Causes
This disorder may be a chemical imbalance deep in the brain. It has the highest genetic incidence of all the mental illnesses.

Treatment
Medications: Mood stabilizers such as Lithium, Tegretol, Depakote, Topamax. Antipsychotics such as Seroquel, Risperdal, Zyprexa

Psychosocial therapies
For more information about these disorders, visit www.nami.org/helpline.htm.