Do you find yourself trying to dodge the shadow of depression? Even on sunny days it follows you everywhere? It’s there when it’s bright and sunny, and it’s there in the gloom and darkness. Lying in bed your depression is fighting for space on the wall as you make bunny ears and shadow puppets.
The sadness is always with you. You have tried thinking positive and you are so tired of everyone telling you to just be more positive, or telling you to smile when you walk into a room! You want to scream back at them, but that will just add to the gossip that you are a little bit more crazy than last week.
You are not crazy! Wait, I want to make sure you heard me... YOU are NOT crazy!
So what is happening?
Depression affects us for many reasons and in many ways. You may be experiencing a life event like the loss of a job or the loss of a relationship. Maybe you are transitioning to a new town or home. Having a high stress level or many stressors at the same time can cause depression..
Our histories, our life experiences, abuse and genetics can cause depression. Maybe you have a chronic illness or you have lost a loved one and are grieving. Whatever reason you are experiencing depression, there are a few things that always hold true... it involves your brain, the way you think and the way you exist in the world, but it doesn’t have to define you.
What does depression look like?
It shows up in symptoms like sleeplessness, an inability to concentrate or think, loss of appetite or a bigger appetite, fear or a lack of interest in what you usually like to do. It sometimes feels like lethargy, irritability or chronic pain that can’t be explained. You might cry for no reason at all. It can cause feelings of hopelessness and wreak havoc on your relationships. Most often you feel immense sadness that just won’t go away. And, sometimes there is no apparent reason for you to feel so sad.
The simple answer is you can feel depression for days, months or years. Significant depression or what is called a Major Depressive Episode typically lasts for a few months. If untreated, it can last longer. You may need medication, therapy and other supports to get through the depression. Getting help early is key!
How will therapy help?
Therapy can literally change your brain! It influences how you think and how you perceive the world around you.
As you learn new ways to cope with your thoughts and feelings, it will turn down the pain and the overwhelming sense of hopelessness you feel. Therapy will help you u nderstand why you see the world the way you do. It will recharge those internal batteries so you can be the you that feels like laughing and enjoying life again.
Find your joy in life! It is out there waiting for you.
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