Even in the spring, when the sun is shining and the birds are chirping, you can feel a little less than sunny.
Usually, these feelings improve and you feel better. But if your sadness continues for two weeks or more and affects other areas of your life, you could be depressed.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression is an illness that impacts how you think and feel. You could be depressed if you experience signs such as:
- Feeling sad, hopeless, anxious, or worthless
- Loss of interest in activities you normally enjoy
- Fatigue
- Problems with concentration, memory, or decision-making
- Changes in sleeping and eating habits
- Irritability
- Aches, pains, headaches, or digestive issues
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Treating Depression
Depression is serious. Seek help if you think you might be depressed. Visit your doctor or a mental healthcare provider such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Depression is treated with therapy, medications, or both.
Depending on the severity of your depression, your provider may begin with therapy alone before adding an antidepressant to your treatment plan. This medication works by changing how your brain uses certain mood-related chemicals. It can take four to eight weeks for antidepressants to work. They can cause side effects such as:
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Sleepiness
- Weight gain
- Sexual dysfunction
If you start taking an antidepressant, don’t stop taking it on your own. Doing so can cause depression to worsen. Talk with your doctor about how to adjust your medicine to fit your needs. With help from healthcare professionals, you can beat depression and return to brighter days.
