Are you sad or irritable most days? Have you lost interest in most things? Are you having a hard time getting motivated or find that you don't have any energy? Is it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, or are there days where you don't want to get out of bed?
These can be symptoms of depression. Most people will experience some of these occasionally, however some people experience increasing symptoms over an extended period of time. And they find that these symptoms often times interfere with work/school, relationships and overall daily functioning.
The National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) reported that "An estimated 16-million American adults, almost 7% of the population had at least one major depressive episode in the past year (NAMI Mental Health Conditions Facts Sheet, NAMI Website).
The symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder include:
Depressed mood most of the day for at least 2 weeks
Loss of interest in most activities, most days
An increase or decrease in appetite, with weight gain or loss
Sleeping too much or not enough
Slowing or increased physical activity
Loss of energy
Lack of motivation
Fatigue
Feeling unworthy or hopeless
Feelings of excessive guilt
Problems with concentration or decision making
Thinking about or making plans to end your life (or past attempts)
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is IMPORTANT that you to reach out and let someone know, a family member or friend. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or have made a plan to do so, please reach out, speak with your doctor or go to your nearest ER where they can assist you. Assistance is available NOW. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has someone available to talk any time, day or night.
It is important to meet with your medical provider for a physical exam to rule out any medical/physical causes for these symptoms. Your doctor may also choose to discuss the option of prescribing medications for your symptoms.
Therapy is a treatment used, often in combination with medications, to manage the symptoms of depression. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is an evidenced based treatment (proven through research) for depression. Using CBT allows us to focus on identifying the ineffective or flawed thinking and behaviors that have contributed to your depression. It is also used to teach you new skills to modify those thoughts and behaviors which can allow for positive change and a decrease in the symptoms of depression