Depression For Dummies
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14 signs you might be depressed
- Feeling worthless
- Change in appetite
- Avoiding contact with other people
- Less energy than usual
- Not looking forward to anything
- More aches and pains lately
- Unable to concentrate like usual
- Feelings of guilt
- Loss of interest in hobbies and things
- Feeling hopeless
- Feeling sad and empty
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Dwelling on thoughts of death
- Unable to make decisions
If you or a loved one is suffering from depression and experiencing thoughts of self-harm, call the at (800) 273-8255, or your local suicide prevention hotline.
Anyone can have these feelings for a little while. You should mainly be concerned if these symptoms last for more than a week or two. However, if you’re having thoughts of suicide or death, get help now.5 places to get help for your depression
- Your family doctor: Ask for a complete physical. Sometimes depression is the result of other medical problems.
- Mental health professionals: See one of these professionals after you rule out other physical causes for your low mood. Licensed psychologists, social workers, and counselors can competently diagnose and treat depression.
- Psychiatrists: These physicians have specialized training in the treatment of depression and other mental disorders. They typically focus on the use of medication and other biologically based treatments.
- The Internet: We recommend WebMD and the American Psychological Association as especially informative sites with lots of useful, user-friendly information about depression. But remember that the internet can’t replace professional help.
- Books about depression. Start with this book and then visit your library. You can’t read too much about the problem.
Depression dos and don'ts
- Do get help. You can start with self-help resources, like the book listed in this article. However, you need to see a professional if your depression doesn’t lift soon.
- Don’t ignore feelings of hopelessness or suicidal thoughts. These symptoms are serious! If you have these symptoms, seek help immediately.
- Don’t think that there’s nothing you can do. Depression is highly treatable.
- Do keep trying. If your first attempt to treat depression doesn’t work, try something new. A variety of ways exist to help you deal with depression.
- Don’t blame yourself. Depression has many causes, and you certainly didn’t ask for your depression.
4 ways to deal with bad moods
- Get moving. Almost any aerobic activity can alleviate a bad mood. Dance, run, or play. Get that heart pounding.
- Be grateful. Make a list of what you feel grateful for. Bad moods may make you forget the good things in your life. Spend a few minutes considering life’s gifts, from small to large.
- Don’t catastrophize. Realize that everyone feels a little low once in a while.
- Help someone. Focusing on helping someone else is one of the best ways to overcome a lousy mood. It’s a great antidote for dwelling on your own misfortune.