It’s important to understand that depression is a very real and serious issue. Some depression passes with time. Other cases may require intervention. In any case, the depressed person needs to feel safe enough to talk about his/her feelings even when they are difficult to put into words. Keeping their fears and feelings a secret is not helpful to those that feel depressed. The depressed person already feels “like a loser” and doesn’t want to hear your judgment about why they shouldn’t feel depressed.
It’s more important than ever to be able to recognize the signs of depression.
Warning Signs of Depression:
- Mood Changes-including feeling sad, irritable, becoming easily angered, or having difficulty getting along with friends and family members
- Loss of Interest-in hobbies, sports, or social activities (avoiding friends and family)
- Lack of Enjoyment- even when involved in an activity you once enjoyed
- Changes in Sleep- difficulty falling asleep, or staying asleep, or desire to sleep all the time to escape reality
- Changes in Appetite- gaining OR losing weight in a discreet period of time
- Changes in Energy Levels- such as feeling tired all the time, restlessness or agitation
- Difficulty focusing or concentrating
- Self-Criticism-feeling like a failure or that “it’s all my fault” even when not your responsibility
- Unexplained Physical Pain-headaches, abdominal pain, back and neck pain, muscle tension
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Your call is welcome. 310-259-8970. We invite your confidential inquiry, questions or comments any time.