Depression

• Depression is a condition in which a person feels discouraged, sad, hopeless, unmotivated, or disinterested in life in general. When these feelings last for a short period of time and is situational, it is often described as a case of "feeling down”

• However, when feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest last for more than two weeks, and when these feelings interfere with daily life such as going to work or school, taking care of family, or spending time with friends, it is time to learn new skills and recover your well being.

• Depression can also often occur with chronic pain, chronic illness and serious medical illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, Multiple Sclerosis and Crohn's Disease. Often, medications taken to manage these conditions can cause side effects which contribute to depression.  

• Mindfullness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy have been shown to be effective evidence-based treatment for depression and preventing future relapses.  

Depression may be part of chronic pain, chronic illness and medical issues.