Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. It causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your abilities. Symptoms must last at least two weeks and must represent a change in your previous level of functioning for a diagnosis of depression.
Depression is extremely common -about one civilian person in 10 experiences depression in any given year. However the Veterans Affairs estimate about 1 in 3 (33.3%) of veterans have some symptoms of depression: 1 in 5 (20%) have serious symptoms and 1 in 8 (12.5%) have major depression, requiring treatment with psychotherapy and antidepressants and hospitalization.
The death of a loved one, loss of a job, or the ending of a relationship are difficult experiences for a person to endure. It is normal for feelings of sadness or grief to develop in response to such situations. Those experiencing loss often might describe themselves as being “depressed.” But being sad is not the same as depression. The grieving process is natural and unique to each individual and shares some of the same features of depression. Both grief and depression may involve intense sadness and withdrawal from usual activities.
Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:
• Feelings and/or having a depressed mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Changes in appetite –weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Loss of energy or increased fatigue
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Feelings of anxiety
The Veteran Affairs disability ratings for depression varies from 0,10,30,50,70, and 100 percent. Once this diagnosis is reached, they will apply the General Rating Formula for Mental Health Conditions found under 38 CFR 4.130. based on the severity of the condition and the resulting level of social and occupational importance.