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Mental Health
Depression is a common illness; anyone can get it. Depression affects people from all cultures, rich and poor. It is not a sign of weakness and it can be treated. The most important thing to remember is that if you have symptoms of depression, tell your doctor. That's the first step to start feeling better. Symptoms of depression include:
• Feeling sad, blue "or down in the dumps"
• Being unable to enjoy activities you used to enjoy
• Feeling either slowed down or restless
• Having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Feeling a lack of energy or feeling tired all the time
• An increase or decrease in appetite or weight
• Having problems concentrating, thinking, remembering or making decisions
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Feeling hopeless
• Thinking about death or suicide
Depression is a mood disorder and is a disease like diabetes or high blood pressure. It affects how you think and feel. If you feel "down" all the time for two weeks or more, you may be depressed. The good news is that depression can be treated. A Mental Health Professional can help you with counseling and/or medicine. You can help your Mental Health Professional by:
• Telling him/her how you really feel
• Asking questions
• Following the treatment you and your doctor decide is best for you
• Getting a physical examination from your Primary Care Physician
For more information, click the appropriate link:
Things to know about depression (pdf)
Things to know about counseling (pdf)
Managing depression (pdf)
Things to know about anti-depressant medication (pdf)
Diabetes and Depression Might Be Linked (pdf)
Helpful links:
Mental Health America
Mental Health America - Get Help
Mentalhelp.net
National Alliance on Mental Illness
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