How Bad Are Your Blues?
If you think your depression is severe and you have thoughts of hurting yourself, you should talk with a mental health professional right away.
There are times when all of us feel blue, sorrowful, or kind of down. True depression is more than this. It affects the way you eat and sleep, the way you feel about yourself, and the way you think about the world around you. Depression is not something that is imagined or”all in your head”. It is a common illness and treatment can help.
Some Signs of Depression
Depression has certain signs and symptoms. Mark the items that best tell how you have been feeling. It is important to discuss any of these feelings with your medical provider or clinic counselor.
Feeling sad and/or irritable
Not enjoying things that used to be fun (being with friends,sports, hobbies, sex)
Unexpected changes in appetite and/or weight
Unexpected changes in sleep patterns, sleeping too much, or not sleeping enough
Feeling tired all the time or having little energy
Feeling guilty, hopeless, or wothless
Problems with concentration, memory, and decision-making
Not caring if you die, thinking about deth or even trying to commit suicide.
Understanding the Causes
When a person has a long term illness, relationship problems, and/or money difficulties, they can become depressed. Depression can run in families. Sometimes depression can happen for no reason. People who are depressed see themselves and the world in a negative way.
Treatment
1. A good support system (don’t be afraid to ask for help)
2. Learning new ways to handle your stress
3. Regular exercise and getting daily sunlight whenever possible
You may need some medical attention along with professional counseling or “talk”therapy.
For more information, call Postpartum Support International at 800-844-4PPD
(773), the National Institute of Mental Health at 1-866-615-6464 or your local crisis
line, or go to www.postpartum.net.