It’s debatable that few words in the English language are misused more than depression. Just as an example, if you’ve ever had a friend or family member who’s felt a little down in the dumps, chances are they’ve described them­selves as depressed.

Depression isn’t the same as being sad or discouraged.  Those feelings are just part of being alive. Depression is an illness, one that can be controlled with proper treatment or that can ruin your life if you don’t get the help you need.