We’ve all had difficult days, but sometimes the sadness you’re feeling needs medical attention. If you have felt sad for several weeks and it’s interfering with your life, you might have a serious medical illness called depression. Early intervention can help to reduce the severity of the illness.
According to the , if you have five or more of the following symptoms of clinical depression and they last for three weeks or more, you should see a doctor or therapist:
- persistent sadness and crying
- low energy and tired all the time
- feeling hopeless or helpless
- changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- problems with memory, concentration or decision-making
- irritability and excessive worrying
- loss of pleasure in usual activities, including sex
- low self-esteem
- thoughts of suicide
What causes depression?
An imbalance of brain chemicals causes depression. A variety of factors can trigger the illness, including: stress or a traumatic event; the death of a close friend or relative; divorce or abusive relationships; medications as well as drugs or alcohol. The illness can also be hereditary.
How is depression treated?
There are a variety of effective medications. Psychotherapy is also often recommended. A healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, a healthy diet and stress management is also important.
RESOURCES
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line - Text "HOME" to 741741
Common Ground - 800-231-1127