Directions: Read the following passage.
Summarize the main idea and the main point(s) of the passage in no more than 60
words. Use your own words as far as possible.
Sadness and depression?
Sadness is normal human emotion that everyone experiences at
some time. A number of events can leave people feeling sad or unhappy, such as the
loss or absence of a loved one, divorce, loss of job or income, financial trouble,
issues at home, or social anxiety.
Failing an exam, not getting a job, or other disappointing events
can also trigger sadness.
However, a person who is sad can usually find some relief from
crying, venting, or talking out frustrations. This is because sadness is more likely
to be linked to a specific trigger.
Sadness usually passes with time. If it does not pass, or if
the person become unable to function normally, this could be a sign of depression.
If symptoms worsen or last longer than 2 weeks, the person should talk to their
doctor.
Depression is a mental disorder that affects every part of a
person's feelings and perception. It affects behaviors and attitudes and can affect
people of any gender or age.
In 2015 around 16.1 million people aged 18 years or above in
the U. S. had experienced at least one major depressive episode in the last year.
This represented 6.7 percent of all American adults. Symptoms include feelings of
discouragement, sadness, hopelessness, a lack of motivation, and a loss of interest
in activities that are normally enjoyable. In severe cases, the person may think
about or attempt suicide.
The person may no longer feel like spending time with family
or friends. They may stop pursuing their hobbies and feel unable to go to work or
school.
Daily habits may change unexpectedly and without reason. A person
with depression may find it difficult to continue doing the things they normally
enjoy.
If these feelings of doubt last more than 2 weeks, a health-care
professional may diagnose the person with major depressive disorder (MDD).
Unlike sadness, depression can leave a person struggling to express
their feelings. If the person tries to release the stress, the overpowering feelings
and negative thoughts can prevent them from building themselves up again.