Depression is common among teens, adults, and even children. It can be something that is short-term (based on current life events / situations), or can be something that person addresses throughout their life. Here are some common signs of depession:
Feeling sad, blue, down in the dump
Discouraged…the future looks bleak
Helplessness
Low self-esteem, worthless feeling
Feel inadequate or inferior to others
Guilt, self-critical
Loss of Interest in career, hobbies, family or friends
Inability to make a decision
Loss of motivation
Poor self image, feeling inferior
appetite changes
Sleep changes, tiredness
Loss of sex drive
Concerns about health
Suicidal thoughts or ideation, feeling you would be better off dead. (get help immediately)
Doing small chores seem to be overwhelming task
Grieving because you feel like your “old” self died and there is no getting back to the person you were before depression hit.
Depression feels like a scream within (as described by an 8 year old)
You feel like you fell into a dark hole, not knowing how to get out and hoping someone will throw you a rope or slide down a ladder to you.
If you have symptoms like this that last more than 2 weeks, seek help from a professional counselor or ask your doctor for a referral. If you truly cannot trust yourself to not hurt yourself or commit suicide, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
The most important thing to know about depression is that it is nothing to be ashamed of, and asking for help is the best gift you can give yourself and your loved ones.
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When you are seeking help for depression it is important to find a counselor that makes you feel comfortable and relaxed. Counseling Connection offers counseling in a casual atmosphere with offices that are centrally located to Shelby Township, Macomb, Rochester and all of metro Detroit. Initial consulations are free to allow you to see if you are comfortable with your therapist. Call (586)601-8000 to set up a free initial consulation with Terry.