Do you ever wonder if more is going on with your mental health than just feeling “moody” several times each week? It could be that you’re experiencing a form of depression and not simply down in the dumps. But how does one know?
Here is a list from the National Institute of Mental Health of common symptoms related to depression. You may want to do a self-check to see where you stand:
Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism
Irritability
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
Decreased energy or fatigue
Moving or talking more slowly
Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
Appetite and/or weight changes
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment
If you checked several on the list above, you may/may not be clinically depressed. However, you should take note of your current feelings and thought life in case you do need to seek emotional treatment with a trained therapist or doctor.
Are there other indicating factors?
If depression runs through your family, there’s a good chance you could be at risk for it.
If you’ve experienced major life trauma such as job loss or the death of a close loved one, you may have feelings of depression.
Sometimes there are physical health issues that will bring on short-term depressive episodes.
Regardless, if you’re experiencing feelings of depression more days than not, it’s best to check in with a medical doctor or trained counselor to evaluate your symptoms. Don’t let the stigma of getting mental health assistance keep you from getting past this hurdle. Most episodes of depression can be treated easily with counseling and sometimes medication.
If you live in the Hendersonville, Tennessee area and need to talk with a trained counselor about your feelings of depression, contact The BabbCenter for Counseling at 615-824-3772.