We all go through rough patches in our lives where a circumstance will bring down our emotions to the point of being depressed for a bit, however having the condition-depression is a much bigger thing than just sadness.
A person who finds themselves falling down into a spiral of negative feelings can often choose to change these negative feelings, however when the condition worsens and feelings of despair, hopelessness, and at lost interest in life become the everyday reality then clinical depression has come into play.
Many studies show that depression is not related to just one age group, class or people, or gender; depression is a chemical in balance from a body’s reaction to an unpleasant event in their life. Seniors may have depression once all family has passed on. Teens often get depression from peer rejection. New moms have this condition right after giving birth, and many have depression based on job loss, stress, and family situations.
Dysthimia or chronic depression is a mild form of depression where the feelings of happiness can last up to two years or more until the patient seeks some sort of therapy.
The best attention this person could receive to move out of depression is to join a support group- it can be through a church group, school classes, exercise buddies, or family gatherings. The key is to have the depressed person out socializing in places that up-lift and encourage the person, and avoiding people that cause or situations that will aid in causing more sadness in this person’s life.
New moms, teens, seniors- none of us are exempt from this condition creeping into our lives. One sure way to keep this at bay will include a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet and getting a good amount of exercise boosts hormones and energy levels. Social groups are also a big factor in keeping life on the positive side, and engaging the mind.
Some people are depressed only part of the time- this is called seasonal depression. Many doctors recommend light therapy for a mood-stabilizing medication such as anticonvulsant or lithium. The best thing you can do is listen to the doctor and do what you think will work best for you based on your given options.
Depression is something that cannot be taken lightly, such as “oh that person is just sad”, or “they like to be alone”. You must share your concerns with someone if you feel depressed or notice someone who might be depressed, start a conversation, and between the two of you there can be put in place a plan of action- giving you hope. Having hope is a great first step to recovery.
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