What You Should Know About Depression

December, 2010

GetFitColville

 

Here is a brief tool to see whether or not depression may be an issue for you or someone you care about:

 

  1. Have you recently experienced changes in your usual sleep pattern?  (Sleeping more or sleeping less than usual).
  2. Have you recently experienced changes in your mood?  (Increased sadness or irritability).
  3. Have you recently experienced changes in your appetite or weight? (weight or appetite loss or gain).
  4. Are you currently experiencing more fatigue or loss of energy?
  5. Has your interest dropped off for things you normally enjoy?

 

If you answered yes to 4 or more of the questions above, you likely have significant depression, and it would be wise to see your doctor as soon as possible.  If you answered 2 or 3 questions yes, you may have a problem, but it may not represent a major depression. 

 

Depression is common, affecting about 19 million Americans, including 4 % of teenagers.  Depression is characterized by changes in mood, either irritability or sadness, sleep and weight changes, fatigue and loss of interest in things one normally enjoys.  Depression can also include preoccupation with death, loss of concentration, low self-image, generalized slow-down of mental functions and excessive anger.

For some of us, depression is seasonal, occurring more commonly during the winter months.

 

There are effective treatments for depression, including medications and counseling.  If you or someone you care about is experiencing major signs of depression, it is time to get some help from your doctor or health professional. 

 

Depression also responds to other lifestyle choices.  Regular exercise, rest, sunlight, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, omega 3 oils, vitamin D, fresh air, and a positive outlook on life can do wonders.  Flood your mind with good things, from the food that you consume to the thoughts that you think.  Believe it or not, being joyful, hopeful, and at peace really improves your mental and your physical health.  Try it out this holiday season and see if you agree.

For more information on depression, visit www.mayoclinic.com.

 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of you,

 

From all of us at GetFitColville