Depression symptoms

There are many symptoms of depression and if depression goes untreated it can lead to suicide. More than 1 out of every 10 people battling depression commit suicide. Sadly, many people never do get diagnosed or treated. There IS help out there and you CAN feel better. Suicide is not the answer! Everyone has feelings of depression at one time or another, whether it's from losing a loved one or just life's hardships in general. That is completely normal. It's when several of these symptoms are combined and last for a prolonged period of time that one should seek medical attention.

~Feelings of helplessness
~Feeling fatigued/having decreased energy
~Feeling hopeless
~Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed (including sex)
~Irritability
~Insomnia
~Excessive sleeping
~Increased or decreased appetite
~Feelings of worthlessness
~Feeling sad, anxious, or empty
~Aches and pains that don't go away with treatment
~Thoughts of suicide

There is a very high risk of suicide with depression. Anyone who expresses thoughts of suicide should be taken very seriously! Some signs of being suicidal are:

~Talking about suicide
~Saying things like "Things would be better if I weren't here"
~Saying how hopeless and helpless they are
~Getting affairs in order (like changing a will)
~Suddenly being calm and happy after being very sad
~Calling or visiting loved ones
~Having clinical depression
~Losing interest in things that were once enjoyed
~Being reckless (like driving through red lights or other dangerous things that could lead to death)

If you or anyone you know have any of these symptoms, please seek help immediately! If you are having suicidal thoughts you can call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255), go to your local emergency room or seek help from a mental health professional.

There is help, you can feel better. I know, my son is proof.

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