Wellness/Health/ Mental health
Five Practical Ways to Deal With Depression
First, meet with a licensed mental health professional for evaluation. Depression is not unhappiness, or laziness, or disappointment. It is more than that; many people can learn how to manage it and live a meaningful life. How?
What is depression?
American Psychological Association defines Depression as an “extreme sadness or despair that lasts more than days. It interferes with the activities of daily life and can cause physical symptoms such as pain, weight loss or gain, sleeping pattern disruptions, or lack of energy.”
APA added, “Depression is the most common mental disorder. Fortunately, depression is a treatable illness, and it can be treated and managed with medication, talk therapy, and lifestyle changes.”
You are not alone.
The recent Gall poll indicates that 18% of adults in the US struggle with depression. That is, one in six people in the US has depression. Get help today.
Can depression mimic laziness? Let your mental health professional answer this question. Make an appointment and meet with them.
What are the signs and symptoms of depression?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the signs of depression may be different from others. The best way to find out is to consult your mental health professional. “If you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
- Decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling slowed down.
- Increased anger or irritability
- Feeling restless or on edge
- Becoming withdrawn, negative, or detached.”
Five practical ways many people can manage depression.
1. First, consult a licensed mental health professional to evaluate and possibly recommend a treatment.
2. Reduce junk or fast food. Move your body and mind daily — force yourself to leave your bedroom, go outside for a few minutes, and read something uplifting.
3. Clean your mind and living space. Manage clutter in your house, company, and mind. Journal your thoughts for a few seconds daily and find positive friends.
4. Be hopeful and find inspiration in yourself, others, and things. Interact with people even when you don’t feel like it. Join a house of worship, Toastmaster, or take a class.
5. Focus more on who or what you can control and less on what and who you cannot control. Importantly, accomplish a small goal daily.
Bonus — Avoid negative people, places, and things, including what you read and watch.
Can depression mimic laziness?
Let your mental health professional answer this question. Make an appointment and meet with them.
A few things to take into consideration when assessing yourself for mental health.
- Are you eating healthy food?
- Are you taking your medication as prescribed and attending therapy as suggested?
3. Have you done your homework as your therapist or counselor suggested?
4. Did you accomplish a small goal today?
5. How is your relationship with yourself and others?
Get this
I used to work with parents with young children at home, and they told me many things, including undiagnosed depression. A few of their stories were true, but many needed a helping hand with young children or lacked daily small goals.
After a few sessions with them, many of these parents change their behavior and live better. A few were referred to see an expert.
Depression presents differently with different people. To be sure of your depression symptoms, meet with an expert for evaluation and possible treatment.
With ongoing treatment, people with depression can live a meaningful life.
In addition, treatment with an expert is time-limited; however, lifestyle changes are ongoing. You are your best mental health expert when you live well with your mind and body.
Be wise. Ask for and receive help.
Get good with your mental health.
Follow me here. Thank you.
References
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/06/nutrition-for-mental-health-depression