1. Depression is common Major depression affects about 14 million American adults, or about 6.7% of the population 18 or older in any given year.

2. If You Are Feeling sad, empty, hopeless, or numb.. Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy. You might lose interest in sex. Irritability or anxiety. Trouble making decisions. Feeling guilty or worthless. Thoughts of death and suicide.

3. Common Causes of Depression Biology. Depression might also be affected by changes in the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, called neurotransmitters. Genetics: Depression runs in your family. Gender. t women are about twice as likely as men to become depressed. Age. People who are elderly are at higher risk of depression. Health conditions. cancer, heart disease, thyroid problems, chronic pain, and many others increase your risk of becoming depressed. Trauma and grief. Trauma, such as violence or physical or emotional abuse. Changes and stressful events.. Medications and substances. Alcohol or substance abuse

4. Sleep Problems Sleep Problems can be a symptom of depression. Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep is common in people who are depressed. But some people with depression may find that they sleep too much.

5. Chest Pain Sometimes chest pains can be a sign of depression. A link between depression and heart disease. Depression increase risk of heart disease. Heart attacks more likely to be depressed.

6. Fatigue and Exhaustion Fatigue and Exhaustion: a sign of depression. People with depression are more than four times to develop unexplained fatigue. People with fatigue are nearly three times to become depressed. Depression and fatigue together tend to make both conditions seem worse.

7. Muscle Aches and Joint Pain Pain and depression are closely linked. people with depression are three times to develop chronic pain. Chronic pain can increase the risk of depression.

8. Digestive Problems Depression can get you in your gut too -- causing symptoms of nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, or constipation.

9. Headaches people with major depression are three times more likely to have migraines. People with migraines are five times more likely to become depressed.

10. Changes in Appetite or Weight Some people lose their appetite when they feel depressed. Others can't stop eating. Depression has been linked to eating disorders like bulimia, anorexia, or binge eating. Women, the link between depression and anorexia or bulimia is especially strong.

11. Back Pain Chronic back pain may contribute to depression. Depression may increase a person's risk of developing back pain People with depression may be four times more likely to develop intense, disabling neck or back pain.

12. Agitation and Restlessness Irritability and restlessness may be related to sleep problems or other symptoms of depression. Depression increases the risk of alcohol or other substance abuse. Men are more likely than women to be irritable when they're depressed.

13. Sexual Problems Severe depression, especially, can have an impact on sex. Some prescription drugs – including for depression -- can also take away your sex drive and affect performance.

14. Dr. Zhao TCM For Depression Herbs for depression. Acupuncture. No risks, safe and effects in 2-6 weeks. The herbs and acupuncture can help all the symptoms. See YIN-YANG balance, Tension Free capsules.