TIPS FOR DEALING WITH DEPRESSION

How Do I Know if I am Depressed?

Depression is different than temporary feelings of sadness that we all deal with from time to time and involves longer-term symptoms that last two weeks or longer including:

• Sadness that doesn’t go away

• Crying spells

• Changes in sleep patterns

• Changes in appetite

• Lack of energy or motivation

• Loss of interest in things you normally enjoy

• Isolating from others

• Difficulties with concentration and/or memory

• Severe depression can also result in suicidal thoughts or hallucinations (hearing or seeing things).  

What Causes Depression?

Depression can occur as the result of unresolved grief issues after losing a loved one, or following other major changes such as divorce, financial struggles or experiencing a natural disaster.  Depression can sometimes tend to run in families as the biochemical effects linked to depression can be inherited much like we inherit heart disease, diabetes, eye color, etc.  Depression can also result from long-term trauma and abuse, including emotional abuse and neglect.  Children who grow up without the nurturing and emotional support they need often develop feelings of “not being good enough” and struggle with low self-confidence and low self-esteem.

Depression can have harmful effects not only on how a person feels day-to-day, but also negatively affecting relationships with family, friends, and coworkers.  Depression can also affect work or academic performance.  These negative effects can create a vicious cycle of worsening depressive symptoms if left untreated.

What Can I Do to Better Deal with My Depression?

Activities that can help cope with depression include:

• Planning something to do every day; having some structure to your day

• Going to bed and getting up at the same time every day; getting enough sleep

• Eating nutritious foods to keep your body physically healthy

• Interacting with others on a consistent basis

• Talking with your doctor to see if there are nutritional deficiencies, thyroid issues, or other medical issues that may be causing your depression

• Talking with your doctor to see if you could benefit from medication such as an antidepressant medication to help manage your symptoms to make it easier for you to engage in some of the other activities listed above

How Does Therapy Work?

Counseling can also be of significant benefit in learning how to cope with and manage depression.  A counselor is an impartial person that will keep your information confidential.  A counselor listens to your concerns and works with you to develop a personal and individualized plan for coping with and overcoming your depression, and to help you get your life back on track. 

How to Get Started Today

Contact my office today to schedule an initial appointment

by phone 334-676-3488

or by email ddorris@debbiedorriscounseling.com