Everyone feels sadness from time to time. But sadness isn’t the same as depression. Though many people make statements such as, “I’m depressed,” clinical depression is a serious, potentially life-threatening mental illness that requires specialized treatment.
Recognizing the reality of depression and its incredible impact on the way you think, act, and feel can help you know when it’s time to get help. If, for any reason, life starts to seem unlivable, it’s time to seek out help immediately. Call Willow Creek Behavioral Health for immediate support.
When Does Depression Form?
Data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offer a specific definition of the difference between sadness and depression. If you are feeling any of the following symptoms for two weeks or more, or you are struggling to complete your day-to-day activities because of sad feelings, reach out for immediate help:
- Feeling empty or hopeless
- Having difficulty going to sleep or staying asleep, or, conversely, sleeping all of the time
- Gaining or losing weight rapidly without trying
- Feeling irritable and easily frustrated
- Struggling to concentrate or remember things
- Having difficulty making decisions
- Thinking about harming yourself or others
- Feeling worthless
Depression is a mental health disorder requiring professional treatment and support. At this point, it may not be possible to just “shake it off” and feel better.
How to Know It’s Time to Get Help for Depression
Even if you feel all of those symptoms often, you may not believe you have depression or need to seek out help. Consider a few specific steps to take to get the help you need.
- Recognize what’s happening. Take the time to think about how you feel right now. Remember that it is okay to not feel okay, and you do not have to navigate this process on your own.
- Give yourself the support you need. This starts with healthy meals, supportive medical care, and exercise. Chronic stress can worsen symptoms of depression.
- If you just don’t know why you always feel bad, despite the good things in your life, seek help.
- If you are losing interest in people and activities you used to enjoy, take this as a sign that you might be depressed.
- Ask your loved ones to provide you with insight. Often, family members can see changes happening in you that you cannot yet see. Having a conversation with family and friends you trust can help you uncover the reality of your depression.
Depression is a disease, and like any other disease, it warrants professional help and may not improve without hands-on support from a licensed therapist and medications if necessary.
What to Do When You Need Help for Depression
As a person suffering from a mental health disorder, know you have options for recovery. You do not have to live in a state of constant sadness or an overwhelming feeling of not being good enough. Instead, make today the day you see change. Get into an outpatient mental health treatment program as a starting point. Your provider can help you determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
If you are feeling at risk of hurting yourself or others, contact 911 immediately. When you do, you will receive help and support to get through your current challenges. Do not wait to get help.
Treatment for depression can be very effective. It may include medications, talk therapy, working on past trauma and pain, and getting physically fit. At Willow Creek Behavioral Health, we offer a variety of strategies to help you recover.
Speak to a Treatment Counselor at Our Location Today
Depression is a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition. You need professional help to navigate it. Let us help you. Set up a no-cost confidential assessment to get started.
