Depression is quickly becoming one of the biggest health problems in the world. According to a study by USA Magazine, 75% of doctor visits in the US are for stress and depression related illnesses. Clinical depression is Australia's fastest growing illness. How do you know if you are depressed?

The National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing found that one in four women and one in six men suffered from depression. In 20 years, depression will be second only to heart disease as the nation's biggest health problem. Chances are, you may be suffering from stress and anxiety, even depression. Here are some of the warning signs.

WORK STRESS

Fear of going to work , Conflict with co workers , Errors or loss of concentration , Absenteeism or being physically there, but doing little work , Unusual or unacceptable behaviour , Aggression or hostility , Accidents or near misses , Trouble with customers , Feeling unable to cope with constant work demands , Working more slowly or making more mistakes , Poor time management.

GENERAL STRESS

Disturbed sleep, Lack of energy or motivation , Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness , Physical aches and pains , Poor concentration, memory or being easily distracted , Feeling that life is not worth living , Loss of interest in sex, Difficulties with home life and routine daily activities , Feeling easily tired , Withdrawal from social activities, Suicidal tendencies , Sadness , worthlessness ,Frequent moaning, groaning and sighing.

While many people do go through times in their lives when they feel disheartened, sad and stressed. Depression is much more than feelings of sadness. If feelings turn into hopelessness, suicidal thoughts or last for more than a few days, you may be suffering from depression. Depression is a problem that affects the body as a whole and can lead to a variety of other problems, as well. There are a variety of medications and therapies that can help people who are dealing with depression, but, sometimes, it is important to identify the cause of the depression first. There are a variety of different causes for depression and different causes will require different treatments.

Genetics

One cause of depression may actually be in your genes. Many studies have shown that depression can be a genetic problem that is inherited. Often, bouts of depression will run in the family and if the genetics are studied, there are slight variations in genetic make-up that seem to correspond with the problems of depression and Bipolar Disorder in particular.

External Problems

Many times, there are external problems that are actually the cause of depression. Many times, depression can start out as grief for a loved one or frustration over a chronic illness. Often, dealing with losing a job or the breakup of a relationship can cause people to go into depression as well. Financial stress is another external problem that can lead to depression. It is important to note that, many times, it is a combination of these external problems with other problems that lead to an episode of depression.

Chemical Imbalances

Another cause of depression can be a chemical imbalance within the body. The chemicals in the brain are very important and having too much or not enough of these chemicals can lead to psychological problems, including depression. Two specific neurotransmitters that seem to be connected with depression are norepinephrine and serotonin. Cortisol, which is a hormone produced in the body, has also been linked to depression and often, too much cortisol is found in people who are suffering from depression.

Depression is a serious problem and no matter what is causing depression in your life or in the life of someone you love, it is important that you get professional help. There is help available for those who are dealing with depression and often, the type of help will be determined by the cause of depression. It is important to know that you are not alone and that there is assistance for those dealing with this difficult disease.

As Richard Bach in "Illusion", so eloquently put it: "What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the Master calls a butterfly." There is much you can do to reduce you stress levels {regardless of whether external stressors change}. Here are 6 of the best.

EXERCISE

There is growing evidence that exercise, and in particular strength training, should be provided as a first line therapy for depression, according to exercise therapist Chris Tzar. "In the coming years, medical practitioners may find themselves prescribing exercise and healthy eating habits as frequently as drugs," he says.

MEDITATION

Take time out to be quiet and attend to personal needs. Meditation is a way many people do this. It is easily learned and takes care of the need to unwind. After meditating, a few minutes rest should be taken before resuming other activities.

YOGA, PILATES OR TAI CHI

All 3 activities include movements to reduce your stress levels. They can also benefit your fitness, balance, strength and flexibility. Why not join a class today? Don't worry, they have beginners' classes and cater for all age groups.