Happy Week: Physiology Of Depression

Depression can take many forms, which can sometimes make it difficult to diagnose. Psychiatrist Dr. Alan Manevitz discusses the signs of depression and explains how the body creates feelings of happiness.

Happiness - and depression - are caused by chemical changes in the brain.

"There are things that you can do, such as exercise or exposure to sunshine, that automatically work with the body to raise the endorphin levels or raise the serotonin levels," says Manevitz.

In the same respect, though, chemical imbalances from genetics, improper nutrition, lack of exercise and sleepless nights can lead to depression. Depression medications work by attempting to stabilize these imbalanced levels.

According to Dr. Manevitz, this is the worst year for depression since 2001 and the 9/11 attacks. Many people have been affected both mentally and financially by the nation's current economic crisis. Almost everyone has been directly affected or knows someone who is struggling.

"It's been a year of increased worries and real problems that people have been facing," says Manevitz.

Loss of financial control can lead to feelings of complete helplessness, which can begin a downward spiral.

"When you get depressed, you're not able to feel pleasure. It's a severe, chronic, pervasive inability to feel pleasure," says Manevitz.

Keep in mind that it's normal to feel a wide range of emotions, but if you're always feeling down, you should contact your doctor.

"Somebody who is happy feels that they can control their life... [but] we're not in a happy state all the time. We're sort of in a state that allows us to be happy," says Manevitz.

If you don't think you're depressed, but instead feel guilty because you may not be struggling as much as those around you, don't lose hope.

"Count your blessings, and understand that you're fortunate in today's day and age," says Manevitz.

Instead of feeling down, reach out to those who are less fortunate. Consider volunteering. Teach your kids that humility is important and that bragging isn't in good taste. Turn your guilt into a positive, pleasure-producing experience instead of a negative one.

By Erin Petrun