[Suicide Prevention Month – September 2022]
As we age, it is normal to wrestle with negative thoughts and different kinds of emotional stress. But when does it turn from feeling down to possible signs of depression – which is a clinical condition?
Studies have shown that 5% of adults who live independently and 13% of adults (in the US) who have home health assistance have diagnosed depression. The number could actually be higher, according to the CDC as many adults could be misdiagnosed. Whether you or someone you know is struggling with overwhelming depressing thoughts, we will list some signs below to watch for and next steps.
If you have been feeling sad for multiple weeks in a row, or have any of the following symptoms, you should speak to your doctor or a professional counselor:
- Lack of interest in hobbies
- Feeling pessimistic
- Feeling restless or irritable for long periods of time
- Either overeating or a lack of appetite
- Either sleeping too much or insomnia
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Digestive upset
- Difficulty making decisions or concentrating
Another thing to keep in mind, is that there are different types of depression.
- Depressive Disorder tied to a medical condition.
- Depressive Disorder induced by alcohol/pain medication.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder: a depressed state that lasts more than two years but might not interfere with a person’s ability to do daily tasks.
- Major Depressive Disorder: symptoms last more than two weeks, presenting barriers to a person doing daily tasks.
These are all things to bring up to your doctor if you believe you or someone you know falls into one of these categories.
If you have suicidal thoughts, it is nothing to be ashamed about and there are people trained and ready to help you. Please call Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text 741741 to chat with a Crisis Counselor.
Full Article Found on September 13, 2022 from A Healthier Michigan Here