The Ins and Outs of Depression

Have you ever noticed yourself or a loved one having a lack of motivation? A random, but sudden change in mood and habits? A lack of interest in things that you/they once loved to do?

Think about it like a wave. Depression can hit at random points throughout one’s life or after a major event.  Depression affects everyone differently.  Some individuals find themselves with a lack of motivation, others may lose sleep or have a sudden change in diet. Because people experience depression differently, it may not be as easy to identify. Many people who think about the concept of depression believe it is simply when someone is sad or is having a hard time. However, depression is much deeper than what people see on the surface.

Depression can have many symptoms including, but not limited to;

• Trouble concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
• Fatigue
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness
• Pessimism and hopelessness
• Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or sleeping too much
• Crankiness
• Restlessness
• Loss of interest in things once pleasurable, including sex
• Overeating, or appetite loss
• Aches, pains, headaches, or cramps that won’t go away
• Digestive problems that don’t get better, even with treatment
• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings
• Suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts

Depression can lead to a very dark place to those who experience or is diagnosed with depression. Feelings of emotional pain can turn to hopelessness and isolation. This is where depression can turn dangerous. Suicidal ideas are scary for both the person experiencing them as well as their loved ones. Some warning signs of this ideation may include;

• A sudden switch from sadness to extreme calmness, or appearing to be happy
• Always talking or thinking about death
• Clinical depression (deep sadness, loss of interest, trouble sleeping and eating) that gets worse
• Taking risks that could lead to death, such as driving through red lights
• Making comments about being hopeless, helpless, or worthless
• Putting affairs in order, like tying up loose ends or changing a will
• Saying things like “It would be better if I weren’t here” or “I want out”
• Talking about suicide
• Visiting or calling close friends and loved ones

If you or someone you love is experience these symptoms, please search out for help.

A counselor is trained to work with individuals who experience depression.  No matter the cause, a counselor is there to walk along with you during this journey and help develop positive coping skills.  We are a non-bias and a neutral party that can help you through this time of need.  It is common to worry if someone will judge them, that no one will understand, or can even help. You are not alone. Finding a counselor is the first step in the journey.