National Depression Screening Day: October 11, 2018
October 11, 2018 is National Depression Screening Day. Take a free, anonymous self-assessment through Screening for Mental Health. Depression is treatable and there is hope and support for this condition. If you or a loved one is suffering, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified mental health provider. You matter and your mental health matters. We’re here for you: (919) 364-1314.
Know the Signs of Depression
Depression can sneak up on you like a fog curling into a forest. Before you know it, you feel lost and overwhelmed. Knowing the signs of depression can be integral to both getting help before the condition becomes severe and in preventing relapse. It also helps us help our friends and loved ones, as we can be on the look out for indications that they may be struggling and in need of assistance.
Symptoms of Depression Include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities
- Difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia (or excessive sleepiness)
- Extreme fluctuations in weight
- Feelings of extreme guilt or worthlessness
- Thoughts of suicide or death
If you or a loved one have been experiencing any of these symptoms, know that there are many evidence-based therapies that can effectively treat depression, as well as things you can do on your own. If you are experiencing active thoughts of suicide, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room to get help right away.
Research suggests that seeking the right kind of support, participating in exercise, meditating or praying, breaking problems down into small achievable goals, engaging in those goal behaviors, checking unrealistic expectations, and receiving evidence-based treatment for depression are all good options.
Therapy can help you navigate your way through the fog of depression and find your way back to the life you want to live. If you think you may be struggling with depression and would like to work with one of our psychologist to address it, give us a call today. We would be honored to work with you! Reach us at (919) 364-1314.
Depression Resources:
Screening for Mental Health: Free Depression Screen
American Psychological Association: Depression
American Psychological Association: Seek the Right Kind of Support
American Psychological Association: Exercise Helps Keep Your Psyche Fit
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255
