Depression

Feeling sad occasionally is a normal part of life. We all have our “bad days.” Everyday events sometimes leave us feeling a little “blue.” There are other times when the feelings of sadness just don’t go away. It can be debilitating. Depression is more than occasional sadness and affects many areas of a person’s life.

People with depression often feel overwhelmed and hopeless. Depression often causes people to having unexplained crying spells, weight gain or loss, problems with concentration and feelings of worthlessness. At times, some people have thoughts of death or suicide. It also is common for people who are depressed to have sleep problems and feel fatigued.

Depression in children can look different than depression in adults. Children experiencing depression are often withdrawn. They may have difficulty concentrating or have difficulty completing tasks at school and at home. Children having problems with depression are sometimes more “touchy” than normal and may appear to be easily irritated.

What can you do?

There is hope for those going through depression. Whether it is a short-term problem brought on by a loss or other circumstances, or a problem that has been around for years, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy can be effective in treating depression. The Counseling Connection therapists are trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for depression and are eager to help you through this difficult time in your life.

The decision whether to get outside help when experiencing depression is not always an easy one. Some helpful questions to ask yourself may be, “Am I having…”

• depressed mood or sadness most days?
• decreased interest or pleasure in things I used to like?
• unintentional weight loss or weight gain?
• sleep problems (too much or not enough)?
• low energy?
• feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt?
• difficulty concentrating at work, school, or home?
• thoughts of death or suicide?

Answering “yes” to several of the above questions may indicate that depression is interfering with your life. The Counseling Connection is here to help. Call us for an appointment at 304-340-3676.