Depression: Are you depressed? Abuse causes depression. Read the symptoms and get professional help if you are depressed.

Abuse

Depression and Abuse:
A person who is being abused is often depressed. It is almost inevitable.

Joy Stevens

Depression is a common occurrence  in the life of an abused person.

Criteria for a Major Depressive Episode. 

A person must exhibit either of the following almost daily for at least a two week period.

1. A persistent sad or depressed mood.

2. Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in usually  pleasurable activities.

3. Plus at least any four of the following:

• significant weight loss or, atypically, weight gain
• insomnia, hypersomnia, or early morning awakening
• psychomotor agitation or retardation
• decreased energy or fatigue
• feelings of hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
• difficulty thinking,m concentrating, remembering or making  decisions
• recurrent  thoughts of death, suicidalidation, a suicide attempt, or a specific plan for suicide

Source: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental  Disorders, American Psychiatric Association, Washington, D.C., 1994

If this describes you, please seek professional help!

Additional information about abuse or being abused.