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The Crisis Center

Serving the Counties of Central Alabama

Depression

 Anyone can suffer from depression.  It is a common mental illness experienced by one out of every six people. There are many causes of depression, such as chemical imbalance, stressful events, another medical illness, or abuse of alcohol or drugs.  People who have a family history of depression are more likely to become depressed.  Personality type may also play a role.  People who are pessimistic, have low self-esteem, and get stressed out by their problems are more likely to become depressed.  In some cases, there may be no apparent reason, and it may occur when everything in life seems to be running smoothly.  Whatever the cause, depression influences your attitude towards yourself, others, and life in general.  It changes the way you think and how you behave.

Depression is a treatable illness.  With appropriate diagnosis and treatment from a trained professional, many people successfully overcome depression.

Overcoming Depression

The first step toward overcoming depression is to define it.  Many people who are depressed are unaware of their symptoms.  If you or someone you know has had any of the following symptoms for longer than two weeks, it may be depression.

• Feeling sad or empty

• Feeling guilty

• Helplessness or worthlessness

• Unable to make decisions

• Difficulty concentrating or remembering

• Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities

• Problems with family or school

• Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting up

• Weight loss or gain

• Headache, stomach aches, or backaches

• Chronic aches in joints or muscles

Has your behavior changed suddenly so that you

• Are restless and more irritable

• Want to be alone most of the time

• Have started skipping class or work, and withdrawing from other activities

• Are drinking heavily or taking drugs

• Have talked about death or suicide, or have attempted suicide

There are many treatment options for those suffering from depression.  Medication, counseling, or a combination of both can be effective.  In the most severe cases, a brief stay in the hospital may be necessary.

 Once depression has been diagnosed, there are many things you can do to speed up recovery.

• Reduce the stress in your life.  Don’t set unrealistic demands or try to do too much.

• Learn stress management techniques. Learn how to relax.

• Set obtainable goals and stick to them.

• Exercise.  Go to a gym, walk, or ride a bike.  Spend time each week outside in physical activity.

• Eat properly and improve your overall health.

• Get involved in the community. Socialize with friends and go out more often.

If you or someone you know is experiencing depression, help is available.  To speak with a trained counselor, call the Crisis Center at (205) 323-7777

Helping a Friend who is Depressed

If someone you know is suffering from depression, your support can be invaluable.  While their success in overcoming depression ultimately depends on their own efforts, there are some things you can do to help out.

• Offer support and reassurance.  A depressed person needs to hear that things will get better in time.

• Encourage your friend to seek professional help.  Many depressed people quit treatment before getting better.

• Compliment and encourage.  Notice any improvements and efforts on their part.

• Don’t criticize or be judgmental.

• Offer affection and support.  Be a good listener.

• Be consistent.  While many who are depressed push others away, or isolate themselves, make an effort to reach out and support them.

• Encourage your friend to get out and experience life.  Take him or her out to dinner or to a movie.

If you have a friend who is depressed, you can help them by talking through feelings and encouraging them to seek professional help.  Many depressed people do not have the energy or desire to seek help.  It is a true act of friendship to share your concerns with that person and help them to seek the appropriate treatment.

For more information about helping a friend who is depressed, call the Crisis Center at (205) 323-7777.

 Teenage Depression

 Many teenagers feel confused during their school years.  Sometimes the many changes and pressures you are facing threaten to overwhelm you.  So, it isn’t surprising that from time to time you or one of your friends feels “down” or discouraged.  When that “down” feeling, along with other symptoms, lasts for more than a couple of weeks, your condition may be clinical depression.  Clinical depression is a serious health problem that affects the total person.  In addition to feelings, it can change behavior, physical health and appearance, academic performance, social activity and the ability to handle every day decisions and pressures.

Depression is often linked to poor school performance, alcohol and drug abuse, running away, and feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness.  The increasing rate of suicide among teenagers stems from depression.  Some depressive episodes appear suddenly or for no apparent reason, while others can be associated with a life situation or stress.  Sometimes people who are depressed cannot perform even the simplest daily activities such as getting out of bed or getting dressed.  Others go through the motions, but it is clear that they are not acting or thinking as usual.

The most important step to overcoming depression – and sometimes the most difficult – is asking for help.  Yet, many people don’t get the help they need.  Often people do not know they are depressed, so they don’t ask for the right help.  Teenagers and adults alike often fail to recognize the symptoms of depression in themselves or in other people.

People who are depressed need professional help.  A trained therapist, counselor, or doctor can help them to learn more positive ways to think about themselves, change behavior, cope with problems, or handle relationships.  A physician can prescribe medications that can help relieve the symptoms of depression.  For many people, a combination of mental health counseling and medication is beneficial.

Local Support Group

For information concerning a local depression support group sponsored by the Mental Health Association (MHA) and the Depression Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), click (here)