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What is depression?  Depression is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities.  Depression can interfere with your ability to function in your daily life.  When depression occurs for a long period of time, it can lead to major depression.  Major depression is considered a serious mental health, medical illness that will affect how you feel, think, and act.  There are several other types of depression as well such as: manic depression, bipolar disorder, seasonal affective disorder, psychotic depression, postpartum depression, situational depression, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
 

Sometimes, people mask depression acting as if everything is okay.  It is okay to not be okay all the time, just don't stay in the state of "not okay."  Pay attention to the signs of depression.  Some of the signs could be: excessive anxiety, apathy, discontent with anything in life, obsessing with guilt, feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, frequent mood swings, sadness, easily agitated, excessive crying, easily irritable, trouble sleeping or excessive sleepiness, excessive hunger or loss of appetite, fatigue or exhaustion, lack of concentration, thoughts of suicide, excessive weight gain from overeating or excessive weight loss from the lack of eating, constant negative thinking, and social isolation. 

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There are several factors that can cause depression such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, a relationship break-up, loss of a financial stability, and mental or health concerns.  If you experience depression, Get Help.  Talk to someone and tell them what you are thinking, feeling, and experiencing.  Don’t shy away from seeking professional counseling.  Seeking counseling does not mean that you are crazy or that something is wrong with you; it means that you are wise enough to know that you are having a challenging time figuring out how to deal with how you are feeling and you are ready to take the necessary steps to improve the quality of your life. 

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Extended depression can lead to suicidal thoughts.  No matter what you experience, always have hope that things will get better.  Do not give up on working towards improving your skills to cope with life challenges.  Counseling can help you figure out how best to cope with life challenges and whatever is making you feel depressed.  There are several different types of treatment for depression.  Make sure to choose the best treatment that works best for you.  Some people take anti-depressants, some people engage in meditation, some seek professional counseling that includes 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and some seek spiritual base counseling.  Cognitive behavior therapy is considered to be one of the best ways to deal with depression, because it helps you train your brain to think optimistically, but again, do whatever treatment plan that works best for you.
 

If you, or someone you know is experiencing depression get help. Call 1-800-662-4357.  Don't wait. 

If you, or someone you know has suicidal thoughts get help.  Call 800-273-8255.  Don't wait.

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To learn more about depression and getting help, visit the WebMD website linked below to watch the video:

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https://www.webmd.com/depression/video/personalizing-depression-treatment

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By Dietra Myers