Depression is a condition that causes people to feel the emotion of depression to a deep and intense level.

This condition is common and is considered to be serious because those who are suffering from depression have been known to experience suicidal thoughts and, in tragic circumstances, attempts. According to the World Health Organization, one million people commit suicide every single year and it is believed that the majority of these cases are triggered by intense episodes of depression. For that reason, depression certainly deserves to be recognized as a major and concerning mental health condition that can have detrimental effects on those who are living with it. Unlike sadness or bereavement, depression is a condition all on its own. Sadness is generally characterized by being sad and withdrawn, often for a very specific reason and with the hope that eventually things will get better from where they are now. Depression, on the other hand, is often triggered by something unknown and can result in people experiencing low moods, withdraw from their daily life functions, and decreased pleasure for several weeks at a time. In some cases, tragic experiences that lead to intense sadness or grief can result in depression, but this is not always the case. Another large difference between sadness and depression is the measure of self-esteem and self-worthiness that is experienced by the person who is suffering. Typically, in experiences of sadness or grief, a person will still see themselves in high esteem and will still have compassion for themselves and their experiences. In episodes of depression, people typically begin to view themselves in a negative light which can lead to low self-esteem, low self-confidence, and feelings of unworthiness. Depression can be triggered or caused by many things, which is why it can sometimes be hard for people to get a handle on their depressive experiences. It is believed that there are four factors that can contribute to the development of depression - biochemistry, genetics, personality, and environment. With biochemistry-related depression, the symptoms are usually caused by an imbalance of chemicals within the brain that can lead to depression. With genetic-related depression, it is believed that it is inherited through familial lineage. Studies have shown, for example, that in identical twins, if one experiences depression, the other twin is 70% more likely to experience depression as well. Personality is believed to cause depression particularly in people who naturally have lower self-esteem or who are easily overwhelmed by the world around them. In people who are naturally pessimistic about the world around them, their personality is also more likely to induce depression. Finally, continued exposure to challenging or dangerous situations such as violence, neglect, abuse, or poverty can also lead to the development of depression in individuals.

This guide will focus on the following: The Key Elements of CBTBenefits of Cognitive Behavioral TherapyThe CBT ModelCBT MisconceptionsCBT Tools for DepressionChallenging Dysfunctional Automatic ThoughtsSuccess at WorkBreaking through limiting self-philosophiesLooking for the PositiveModern CBT &The Latest Tools... AND MORE