Depression

What is Depression?

  • Depression is an illness, just like ulcers or pneumonia.
  • The feelings associated with depression last longer than a couple of weeks and no matter how hard a person tries to talk him/herself into feeling better, it just doesn't work.
  • Depression is a no-fault "total body" illness that affects a person's thoughts, feelings, behavior, physical health and appearance and all areas of a person's life - home, work, school and social life.

What Causes Depression?

  • Depression seems to be caused by a complex combination of genetic, psychological and environmental factors.
  • The brain is an organ, just like the heart or liver. If the chemicals in the brain that regulate how a person thinks, feels and acts get out of balance, the brain can get "sick" and the result can be depression.
  • Bad life experiences or stressful situations can trigger depression, but it can also appear out of nowhere, when things are going fine and you have no reason to feel depressed.
  • There are times when we can be more vulnerable, example: when family or school pressures are high.

DEPRESSION IS NOTHING TO BE ASHAMED OF!

Signs of Depression

  • Sleeping a lot or being unable to sleep.
  • Loss of appetite and weight loss or eating more and gaining weight.
  • Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy.
  • Loss of interest in personal appearance.
  • Withdrawing, spending time alone.
  • Intense feelings of sadness, crying frequently, often for no reason.
  • Either feeling overwhelmed or feeling empty.

It is Important For Friends to Recognize Signs of Depression.

  • Depression affects thinking. The depressed person may not be thinking rationally; may believe he/she cannot be helped.
  • If depression is severe, it can cause thoughts of hopelessness and helplessness.
  • Untreated depression sometimes leads to thoughts of suicide.

If you are concerned about a friend who might be depressed or if you are experiencing some of the above symptoms, arrange to talk to someone in:

Counseling at 822-9600 ext: 2695
or
Health Services at 822-9600 ext: 2696