We have talked about depression and how it is a serious medical condition that affects the body, mood, and thoughts. It affects the way a person eats and sleeps. It affects how a person thinks about things and their self-perception.

Research continues to reveal that depression is not 'all in your head' or a sign of weakness. It is a serious illness, like cancer or heart disease.

But in spite of the overwhelming evidence that depression is a medical condition, many people still aren't seeking treatment.

FACT: Two out of three people suffering from depression don't get the help they need.

A person may attribute their symptoms to a lack of sleep or a poor diet instead of major depression. Someone with dysthymia may think their feelings are normal, since they have lasted for so long.

Left untreated, depression can result in years of pain for both the depressed person and his or her family.

But depression is treatable. And the first step in dealing with depression is to seek help from a qualified healthcare provider. He or she will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend treatment for your particular situation.

If your healthcare provider diagnoses depression, the second step in dealing with it involves learning strategies for success.