Depression

How Do I Know If I’m Depressed?

Overwhelming sadness. Hopeless. Worthless. Tired. Heavy. Empty. Painful. Despair. Crippling.

These are just some of the words my clients have used to describe depression. Depression is hard. Depression is a real mental illness with real symptoms. It is not something we choose. We can’t just turn it off or on.

Depression is more than just sadness. It is overwhelming and all-consuming lack of joy that causes hopelessness. Some other symptoms of depression include difficulty sleeping, lack of (or increased) appetite, feelings of worthlessness, suicidal thoughts or ideations, poor concentration, lack of focus, and even physical aches and pains.

Unfortunately, there are many types of depression. This blog will go into more detail for each later but these include seasonal depression, postpartum depression, and major depression to name just a few. Additionally, there are many causes including but not limited to genetics, alcohol or substance use, situational or life transitions, medical diagnoses, and/or hormones.

If you think you might be depressed, help is available. Therapy is a good place to start. You may also consider talking to your doctor about it. Therapy and medication are good treatment options but talking to someone can help you identify what your specific needs are. You don’t have to figure it out alone. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, you should call 911, 988 or go to your nearest hospital. Please click here for more resources.

Additionally, if you live in NJ, DE or MD, I would love to schedule a consult with you to talk more about depression. Please click here to send me a message.

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