HOW TO FIGHT DEPRESSION
Today's video is about how to fight depression. There are many ways to fight depression but the struggle can feel very personal. I think it is important to mention that depression is one of the most common mental health conditions out there and there is a lot of research on various evidence-based approaches to help you overcome it.
Depression can look and feel very different for different people. I recommend understanding the symptoms of a major depressive episode so you can create a plan to target each symptom specifically.
The symptoms include:
1. Depressed mood
2. Loss of interest in activities
3. Significant weight loss or weight gain, or decrease or increase in appetite.
4. Insomnia (difficulty sleeping) or hypersomnia (sleeping too much)
5. Psychomotor agitation (e.g; restlessness)
6. Fatigue or loss of energy
7. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
8. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
9. Recurrent thoughts of death including suicide
A major depressive episode is defined by 5 or more of the above symptoms, most if not all of the day for a minimum of 2 weeks. Additionally, the symptoms have to be impacting multiple areas of our life.
Regardless of whether you meet this criteria for a major depressive episode, symptoms of depression are very treatable when properly managed.
I highly recommend a targeted approach to fighting depression. Also, we can't underestimate the importance of a support network at this time. The tendency is often to isolate and avoid help. However, we are hardwired to connect and be social. Much of our success at fighting depression stems from doing the opposite of what we feel like doing in the moment. Go out, reach out, talk to the people you know, love and trust.
Finally, I recommend the help of a mental health therapist and perhaps a psychiatrist. Research supports the fact that treatment is fastest, most effective way to overcome depressive symptoms. Treatment can be not only healing, but transformational. Treatment will take you on a journey of self-discovery that you may never have had a reason to explore were it not for this. I think it is important to mention that finding the right therapist is a lot like any relationship. We don't click with everyone. If you don't click with your therapist move on to someone else. Keep exploring your therapy options until you meet someone who really gets you! You deserve this!
Finally, if you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, you have a plan or you have a history of suicide attempts keep the following numbers in your bag or a pocket for matters of emergency:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
The address of your nearest emergency room
Phone number of 3 people you know and trust who can help.
Suicidal thoughts and impulses are common symptoms of a major depressive episode. Like all urges, thoughts and emotions they also change and are treatable. Take it seriously and reach out for help.
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I'm Ashley Waknine, a therapist and life coach making weekly videos about mental health and self-management.
VIDEO CREDIT/REFERENCES
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V)
World Health Organization
CONTACT
Business email: [email protected]
BOOK RECOMMENDATION FOR DEPRESSION
The Happiness Trap - Dr. Russ Harris
FIND ME HERE
Website: https://www.ashleywaknine.com/
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**PLEASE READ**
If you or someone you know is in imminent danger, please go to the closest emergency room or call a local emergency number.