Recognize & Overcome Depression

It's just normal to feel "blue" or "down" sometimes, according to medical experts. However, any longer than 2 weeks may be a sign of depression.

Warning Signs:

• persistent sadness, anxiety or "empty" mood.
• loss of interest or pleasure in activities including sex.
• irritability, restlessness or excessive crying
• feelings of worthlessness, guilt, hopelessness, pessimism and helplessness
• sleeping too much or too little, early morning awakening
• loss of appetite, weight loss or overeating and weight gain.
• feeling "slowed down", decreased energy and fatigue.
• thoughts of suicide and death or with suicide attempts.
• difficulty remembering or making decisions and concentrating.

If most of the above symptoms bother you for more than 2 weeks, seek help to your doctor or a mental health professional. The sooner you get help, the sooner you get better treatment to feel better.

Choose a treatment approach you are comfortable with your health care professional.
Consider yourself a partner in your treatment and be an informed consumer.