Suzie (not her real name) was a hard-working 38-year-old in a satisfying marriage with three teenage children. Last fall, Suzie began to feel unmotivated, exercising less, preferring to come home after work and lie on the couch for hours. Even early snowfall in December did not lure her outside, and she had dearly loved skiing since she was a little girl.

Sleepless nights spent tossing and turning eventually led to to her calling in sick to work when she just couldn't bring herself to get out of bed. Her marriage suffered, her children began to avoid her, and Suzie felt like a miserable failure. Suzie began to brood over her lack of motivation and perceived failures, further isolating herself from family and friends. She entertained thoughts that the world would be better off without her. Suzie knew something was terribly wrong in her life.

Suzie's brother was increasingly concerned about the symptoms of depression his sister appeared to be experiencing. The fact their father had experienced severe depression several years ago increased his concern. He suggested Suzie make an appointment with her doctor or a counselor to talk about her symptoms.

Suzie met with a counselor and made the decision to learn more about her illness and how to successfully manage the life-altering symptoms she was experiencing. Suzie found renewed hope that her life could be what it once was.

Depression is a common illness, and help is available. Many people who experience symptoms of depression know something is wrong but don't know what to do about it. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 17 million people in this country experience depression each year, and about two thirds of them do not seek help. Depression is a treatable illness.