Depression and Bipolar Disorders: Everything You Need to Know (Your Personal Health)

Depression is a deceptively common illness. At some point in their lives, one out of every five people will struggle with bouts of depression, and nearly twice as many women will be affected as men.

At the outset, depression can seem quite similar to the sadness or low moods that we all feel from time to time. As the illness progresses, however, work life, social life and intimate relationships all suffer. The affected person loses interest in those around him, feels exhausted and hopeless and often considers "giving up."

In Depression and Bipolar Disorders, Dr. Virginia Edwards explores the causes, symptoms and treatment of depressions. Topics include:

• normal versus abnormal depression
• unipolar depressive disorders
• bipolar depressive disorders
• biological and psychosocial therapies
• depression in women and the elderly
• treatment options, including involuntary hospitalization
• suicide.

This comprehensive examination of depression also features case studies and an extensive resource list.

Dr. Virginia Edwards has been in private practice -- focusing on women's health and family issues -- for more than 30 years. She recently retired from her position as the head of Toronto East General Hospital's Child Psychiatry Department.