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Depression occurs as a disorder in which
the brain experiences emotional turmoil across a
spectrum. There is a discrete change in behavior, sleep, appetite,
drive and thinking skills that is thought
to last at least one week in children and two weeks in
adults. Mood changes may appear as irritability more than sadness,
especially in children. Crying spells or near crying with little
provocation may occur along with feelings of hopelessness.
Concentration and motivation are decreased
to the point of
difficulty with completing daily chores. Guilt and even suicidal
thinking become more dominant the longer the disorder is not
treated.
www.nimh.nih.gov |
