Everyone experiences sadness when things seem amiss. Often the source of these feelings is clear, but sometimes it isn't so easy to pinpoint. Some people feel heightened sadness or melancholy once the frantic pace of the holidays end. Others report despair from the prospect of weeks of wintery days spent indoors. Living with a chronic disease such as hepatitis B can intensify these feelings, eventually leading to more serious depression. In fact, depression is often listed as a common side effect of hepatitis B treatment.

Hepatitis B can cause fatigue, low energy, impaired concentration and a sense of inadequacy in doing daily tasks. These symptoms can also create depression, so it's wise to develop ways to counter them. Try meeting a friend for lunch. Reach out to others through participation in an hepatitis B support group. Use music or dance to lift your spirit. Read the works of inspirational authors. Take up a new hobby. Of course, not all sadness can be lifted so easily.

True clinical depression can cause a reduction in energy, sadness, an inability to concentrate, insomnia, or feelings of despondency, dejection and hopelessness. In true clinical depression, this sad mood and its symptoms can last weeks, months or even years if not treated.

The exact cause of depression isn't always easily identified. Equally eluding is why some people are prone to the condition while others rarely experience such feelings. But more people suffer from depression than you might think. Depressive disorders affect about 34 million American adults. Nearly twice as many women as men are affected by a depressive illness each year.

Depression is a real medical condition, not a sign of weakness or a character flaw, and should be considered a serious health problem. But there are proven ways to successfully treat depression - if you learn the signs and get the help you need.

Signs of Clinical Depression

If you or a loved one experience several or all of these symptoms, consider seeking help from a medical professional:

• Changes in appetite or weight
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Noticeable restlessness
• Heightened periods of worry, anxiety, or irritability
• Decreased activity, especially in things previously enjoyed
• Continuous and extreme fatigue or loss of energy
• Preoccupation with feelings of shame, guilt, hopelessness, inferiority
• Loss of focus, ability to concentrate or make decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide