Depression isn’t something that should be taken lightly. Most people won’t seek help for depression because they feel it’s a taboo subject. They don’t want to be told to ‘just cheer up’ or ‘get on with it’ because they know that won’t help. However, suffering in silence could be even worse. If you think you’re dealing with a mental health issue, it may be time to seek professional help. Here are ten signs that you need help for depression.
Longer than a Fortnight
Take a look at the symptoms of depression – http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/detecting-depression#1. If you recognise these symptoms in yourself, you need to monitor how long they stay. If you feel the same way for over a fortnight, it’s best to seek some help from a medical professional. It’s very rare for sufferers of depression to seek help so soon, but the longer you wait, the harder it could be to treat.
If You Have Children
Caring for children, especially young children, can really take it out of you. Suffering with depression and looking after children will take you to your limit. Your mental health has a direct effect on your family members and those close to you, so it’s wise to get whatever help you can. This is so your daily life becomes more manageable. If you’re able to take care of yourself in the best way possible, you’ll be able to care for others in the best way too.
Are You Able to Work?
We rely on our work as a source of income. The money we get from our incomes is what allows us to survive. If you’re unable to concentrate on your work or your work is making you depressed, your income may be at risk. Have you started to miss days of work? Perhaps you’ve been arriving to work late or slacking on important jobs. If you feel like you can’t muster any motivation to do your job, it could be time for you to get some help. Remember, asking for help isn’t a weakness.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a typical symptom of depression. Having said that, you may also feel like you’re unable to sleep too. Therefore, many people who suffer from depression struggle to get through a day because their bodies are tired but their minds won’t let them rest. You may also experience weight loss or weight gain with depression. If you’re aware that something isn’t quite right, you may start to become stressed. All of these symptoms will fight against your immune system, so you may find that you’re more susceptible to illness.
You Can’t Cheer Yourself Up
Most of us know exactly how to cheer up. Whether it’s a good movie, a new book or a jamming session on the guitar, there’s often at least one thing that can put a smile on our faces. If your attempts to cheer yourself up fail, you need to make an appointment with your doctor. There could be many forms of treatment available, including help at CompassHealthCenter.net/psychiatric-programs/partial-hospitalization-program-php/. There are also many alternative therapies that you could try, so be sure to ask about your options.
Substance Abuse
Many people with depression find relief in alcohol and drugs. They can offer a temporary high that’s unachievable with depression. It goes without saying that indulging in alcohol or drugs while dealing with depression will only make the problem bigger. Before the problem gets out of hand, it’s important for you to seek help. You may be put on a detox program and someone will be available to talk to 24/7.
Anger
Anger is another symptom that can be caused by depression. You may feel so angry that you smash possessions in your home and harm yourself. If it comes to the point where you begin to fantasize about hurting others, you need to seek help immediately. This is for your own safety and the safety of others. If you become angry, you may want to try some calming techniques. It’s also wise to accept help from a therapist who can help you to work through some of the root issues causing your anger.
Staying in Bed
Depression can cause a lack of motivation. We all wish we could stay in bed a little longer every day, but if you’re finding it difficult to get out of bed every day, depression could be the cause. It may make you feel like the day is too difficult to face and you’d rather stay in bed and not get dressed. People with depression very rarely get the amount of sleep they should be having. It’s usually much more or much less. Neither is good for your mind or your body.
Are Others Concerned
If the people who are closest to you are telling you there’s something wrong, you need to listen. Others may notice that your mood has changed or that you’ve been acting differently for a prolonged period of time. It’s often likely that they’ll notice before you do. If they’re concerned for your wellbeing, alarm bells should be ringing. If you don’t want to face getting help alone, ask someone you trust to go with you.
Suicidal Thoughts
It’s not uncommon for people with depression to self-harm or have suicidal thoughts. Even if you’re just thinking about it but believe you would never harm yourself, it’s important to seek help. If you believe that committing suicide is the only way to get relief from the pain you feel, you cannot ignore this sign! Just having someone to talk to and support you through your recovery will make a tremendous difference. Take a look at BetterHelp and start talking to a counsellor who has been specifically matched to you and your needs. You don’t even have to leave your home.
Dealing with depression is difficult, but it’s much better to address the problem than ignore it and risk making it worse. When you feel any of these symptoms or signs apply to you, please seek medical advice and help.
