Depression: Define It Defeat It
Causes of Depression
When the source of depression is readily apparent, the individual can expect the reaction to lessen and then fade away within a reasonable amount of time. In cases where feelings of depression exist with no apparent source, the depression may get worse because the person is unable to understand it. This sense of loss of control may add to the actual feelings of depression. Any number of stressors may be involved in depression. This can include personality, or environmental factors such as loss of a loved one, an unhealthy relationship, excessive criticism and negativism, unrealistic expectations and difficulty in expressing feelings. Biochemical factors, such as illness, infection, certain drugs (including alcohol and even prescribed medications) and improper diet and nutrition can create chemical imbalances which play a significant role in some depressions. In general, depression is a withdrawal from physical or psychological stress. Identifying and understanding underlying causes of the stress is necessary in learning to cope with depression.
Helping Yourself
Being honest with yourself about changes in mood or the intensity of negative feelings as they occur will help you identify possible sources of depression or stress. Examine your feelings and try to determine what is troubling you — relationships with family or friends, financial responsibilities, and so forth. Discussing problems with the people involved or with an understanding friend can sometimes bring about a resolution before a critical stage of depression and stress is reached. Even mild depression should be dealt with if it interferes with your effectiveness. You might also try to :
* Change your normal routine by taking a break for a favorite activity or something new-even
if you don’t feel like it
* Exercise to work off tension, help you relax, and perhaps improve your ability to sleep
* Avoid known stressors
* Become more positive and active rather than criticizing and waiting for others to act
* Learn to be specific, not vague about your feelings and to express them constructively
* Delay making long-term commitments, decisions or changes that make you feel trapped or
confined
* See a physician, especially if physical complaints persist
Helping a Depressed Friend
Since severely depressed individuals can be very withdrawn, lethargic, self-ruminating, and possibly suicidal, a concerned friend can provide a valuable and possibly life-saving service. Talking candidly with the individual regarding your concern for his or her well-being will often help bring the problems out into the open.
As you talk with your friend, share your concern and willingness to help.
* Acknowledge the pain and suffering
* Do not try to “cheer up” the individual
* Do not criticize or blame as feelings of depression cannot be helped
* Do not sympathize and claim that you feel the same way as he or she does
* Try not to get angry with the depressed individual
If the depression appears to turn to thoughts of suicide, urge the individual to seek professional help. If the person resists such a suggestion and you feel that suicide is likely-contact a professional yourself, so you will know how to best handle the situation.
When Professional Help is Necessary
Depression is treatable and needless suffering can be alleviated. A mental health professional should be consulted when an individual experiences any of the following circumstances:
* When pain or problems outweigh pleasures much of the time
* When symptoms are so severe and persistent that day-to-day functioning is impaired,
and/or
* When stress seems so overwhelming that suicide seems to be a viable option
Qualified mental health professionals can help identify the causes and sources of depression and can help the individual find ways to overcome them.
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