Depression

 Symptoms that can indicate Depression 

• Problems with sleeping: getting to sleep, staying asleep, sleeping too much
• Marked change in appetite
• Problems with concentration and decision-making
• Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
• Lowered self-esteem: blaming self more than usual, focusing on perceived defects in self
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Decreased interest in previously enjoyed activities, people and hobbies
• Loss of energy and motivation
• Restlessness and irritability

Things that can help – These are things that are often hard for a depressed person to do, but doing them can alleviate depression.

• Get up. Get out of bed.  Get moving. 
• Exercise
• Increase lights and get out into the sunshine.
• Seek out things that are humorous…a funny movie etc.
• Develop a support system of people you can turn to.
• Play happy and energetic music
• Talk with someone
• Avoid alcohol
• Counseling
• Talk to your physician about anti-depressants.