When It’s More Than Just the Blues

If low-grade chronic depression is not dealt with, it can progress to a more serious disorder​—major depression. (See page 107.) “I constantly felt as if I were ‘dead’ inside,” explained Marie, a victim of major depression. “I was just existing without any emotions. I had a feeling of constant dread.” In major depression the gloomy mood is unrelenting and may continue for months. Consequently, this type of depression is the most common ingredient in teen suicides​—now considered a “hidden epidemic” in many countries.

The most persistent emotion connected with major depression​—and the deadliest—​is a deep sense of hopelessness. Professor John E. Mack writes of a 14-year-old named Vivienne, who was a victim of major depression. To all outward appearances she was a perfect young lady with caring parents. Yet, in the depths of despair, she hanged herself! Wrote Professor Mack: “Vivienne’s inability to foresee that her depression would ever lift, that she had any hope of ultimately obtaining relief from her pain, is an important element in her decision to kill herself.”

Those affected with major depression thus feel as if they will never get better, that there is no tomorrow. Such hopelessness, according to experts, often leads to suicidal behavior.

Suicide, however, is not the answer. Marie, whose life had become a living nightmare, confessed: “The thoughts of suicide definitely came into my mind. But I realized that as long as I didn’t kill myself there was always hope.” Ending it all indeed solves nothing. Unfortunately, when confronted with despair, many young persons cannot even visualize alternatives or the possibility of a favorable outcome. Marie thus tried to hide her problem by injecting herself with heroin. She said: “I had plenty of self-confidence​—until the drug wore off.”

[Box on page 107]

Could It Be Major Depression?

Anyone may suffer temporarily from one or more of the following symptoms without having a serious problem. However, if several symptoms persist, or if any is severe enough that it interferes with your normal activities, you may have (1) a physical illness and need a thorough examination by a doctor or (2) a serious mental disorder​—major depression.

Nothing Gives You Pleasure. You can’t find pleasure in activities you once enjoyed. You feel unreal, as if in a fog and just going through the motions of living.

Total Worthlessness. You feel that your life has nothing important to contribute and is totally useless. You may feel full of guilt.

Drastic Change of Mood. If you were once outgoing, you may become withdrawn or vice versa. You may often cry.

Total Hopelessness. You feel that things are bad, there’s nothing you can do about them, and conditions will never get better.

Wish You Were Dead. The anguish is so great that you frequently feel that you would be better off dead.

Cannot Concentrate. You go over and over certain thoughts or you read without comprehension.

Change in Eating or Bowel Habits. Loss of appetite or overeating. Intermittent constipation or diarrhea.

Sleeping Habits Change. Poor or excessive sleep. You may frequently have nightmares.

Aches and Pains. Headaches, cramps, and pains in the abdomen and chest. You may constantly feel tired for no good reason.