My first article of 2015 is not a bright or happy topic. I’m not going to discuss Winter Break or the joy of ringing in a New Year. What I am doing is addressing an issue that is primarily looked over: depression.

Everyone has experienced sadness. That is absolutely normal. However, when is it normal and when is it something more?

It is something more when “these feelings become overwhelming, involve physical symptoms, and last for long periods of time, they can keep you from leading a normal, active life,” according to WebMd.

The symptoms of clinical depression include the following according to WebMD:

“Difficulty concentrating. remembering details and making decisions; fatigue and decreased energy; feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness; feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism; insomnia; early-morning wakefulness or excessive sleeping; irritability; restlessness; loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable including sex overeating or appetite loss; persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment; persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings; and thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts.”

I’ve met too many people who suffer from depression and their issue has been written off. People treat it as though they can fix themselves. It is real and it needs to be addressed and we need to be sensitive to those in need.

Depression is a serious issue that people cannot ignore – people who suffer need all the love and care they can get. Let’s band together to help our friends and family who need us.