Dealing With Depression

Depression affects 17 million people in America alone. This disorder is no longer something that can be ignored or passed over. More and more people are dealing with this crisis on a daily basis. This disorder has become a pandemic in many respects. If you are feeling alone, worthless, tired all the time. Or if you have a loss of appetite and cases of insomnia and if all of these symptoms persist for long periods of time then you should consider looking at the possibility of depression. Now I am not saying that everyone with these symptoms are depressed, not by any means, but I am saying that it is a possibility and therefore should be considered.

I have dealt with the affects of depression my whole life. I know firsthand how debilitating it can be. This disorder doesn't just affect the mind but it degrades the rest of the body as well. Furthermore, the destructive nature of this disorder doesn't stay in the confines of the person dealing with it. Rather it is a disorder that engulfs everyone around the person dealing with it. I am not a psychologist but I do have some techniques that work for me. Note that these may or may not work for you and it is important to get a professional opinion. So, having said that, this is what works for me.

1. Admit that there is a problem- You cannot treat something if you first don't admit that there is something to treat.

2. Realize that what you feel is normal- Feelings of depression are a  part of life. Almost everyone will at one point feel some symptom of depression.

3. Remember that you are not alone- You are not the first to feel these feelings and you will not be the last.

4. Don't hold back your pain- We are taught to be strong and endure but this isn't always good. If you need to cry then cry. If you need to yell then yell.

5. Surround yourself with family and friends, or just people in general- A part of being depressed is feeling isolated. Don't allow yourself to give in to these feelings. Surround yourself as much as possible.

6. Seek help- This is a tough one. Many people don't want to see someone because they think they are crazy by seeing a counselor or that they can handle it themselves. The fact is that counselors and psychologists are trained professionals who can teach you the tricks needed to overcome depression.

7. Talk about your feelings- How do you feel? What do you feel? Talk about it. Verbalizing what is going on inside more often than not will help you come to terms with what it is you're feeling.

8. Write it down- Don't deny your feelings. If you can't verbalize it then write out what you are feeling. Keep a journal or simply write it out and throw the paper away. The idea is to accept your feelings and to see your feelings.

9. Go to work- Don't neglect your job. Working will give you vital interaction and will help take your mind off of negative thoughts.

10.  It will not last forever- Depression doesn't last forever. For most it feels as though it will never end, but for most it will, it will get better.

Now remember I AM NOT A PROFESSIONAL. This is simply what has helped me in the past. If you are dealing with depression or you know anyone who is then you should seek professional help. Don't fall into the temptation to diagnose someone or yourself, leave that to those who are trained to. Furthermore, know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Seek out local support groups in which to surround yourself.