Clinical Depression

All of us have experienced bouts of gloom and low mood at some point in our lives. We tend to become cranky, irritable and get tired easily even without doing any major physical activity, but these feelings of dullness and low mood disappear within 1- 2 days and then we slowly come out of it and get back to leading a normal life. But when low mood persists for more than the normal period there is a cause for concern. We may have to look for signs of clinical depression.


Clinical Depression is a serious medical condition that affects majority of people at some point in their lives. It can affect anyone regardless of age, sex, culture or social status. It affects one’s ability to think and react, relationships, sleep patterns, general interest in life, work and usual activities and just generally the ability to function at a normal level. It is more than the occasional “blues” that last a couple of days. Rather, if left untreated, depression can continue to adversely affect the quality of life of both the individual and those close to the person for months or even years.

Depression is treatable, however, the earlier that it is diagnosed and treatment started, the better the prognosis can be. Women are at a higher risk than men for clinical depression due to the hormonal changes which take place during their puberty, menstruation, pregnancy or even during their menopause.