Depression is a psychiatric disorder characterized by inability to concentrate, insomnia, loss of appetite, feelings of extreme sadness, guilt, helplessness and hopelessness, and thoughts of death. Depressed people experience greater and more prolonged sadness than any objective reason warrants. It is a serious disease that affects your thoughts, feelings, and ability to function in everyday life. Thirteen to fourteen million Americans suffer from depression in any given year, and over sixteen percent suffer from depression at some point in time. (Depression Health) Women tend to be more susceptible to the disorder than men. (Depression) Symptoms of depression are persistent sad mood, loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed, significant change in appetite or body weight, difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much, physical slowing, agitation, loss of energy, unnecessary or inappropriate guilt, difficulty thinking or concentrating, and recurring thoughts of death or suicide. Depression can last several months or longer and may recur, but is generally reversible in the short term. Depressed people need to feel connected, anchored, or guided by important people. (Effects) Depression frequently co-occurs with other physical illnesses, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. (Arie) Some causes of depression stem from a family history of depression, the birth of a child, child abuse or neglect, stressful or traumatic life events, and a chronic or life-threatening illness. Depression can cause cognitive problems, insecure attachment, emotional and social deterioration, slowed growth, and the need to do things you wouldn't normally do. Many depressed people also suffer from another mental disorder... middle of paper... n Arthritis, asthma, or diabetes. (HealthFindings: the latest studies and research on public health).” The health of the nation. November 2007. page. 30.Dean, Mary R. Personal Interview. Thursday, January 31, 2008. “Depression and Health: Long-Term Effects.” Harvard Mental Health Letter. August 1995. page 7. “Depression is a work issue.” Briarpatch. December 2007 “Depression is a significant cause of homicides in China.” Xinhua News Agency. November 2007 “Depression (health).” World Almanac and Fact Book. World Almanac Educational Group.2005. page 96. “Effects of Postpartum Depression.” Speeches of the Nation. 26, June 2001 Jancin, Bruce. “Postpartum depression is bad for babies. (Boys are more affected than girls." Clinical Psychiatry. July 2003. Lewis, Kristyn Kusek. "Tired? In Pain? Thirsty? The Symptoms That Trip Even the Best Doctors." Weider Productions. December. 2007