How Do I Treat Depression?
Feeling depressed
Everyone feels blue occasionally, and when we’re feeling down, physical activity is a great way to build up and release endorphins—molecules that give your mood a powerful lift. Getting your heart pumping by taking the dog for a walk, going to the gym, or joining an activity at your local park or recreation center can boost your mood and curb normal feelings of sadness or stress.
What is depression?
While the lifestyle changes mentioned above are good advice for everyone, they may not be enough for someone who is dealing with clinical depression. The University of California at Los Angeles offers the following list of depression symptoms:
- Feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, or pessimism for days at a time
- Having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, waking up in the middle of the night, or waking up too early
- Frequently feeling tired
- Lack of interest in activities, or isolation from friends and family
- Loss of appetite or eating too much
- Lack of concentration or focus
- Feeling guilty unnecessarily
- Thinking of death or suicide, or attempting suicide
If you experience these symptoms for two weeks or more, you may have depression, and you should seek help from a healthcare professional. Your healthcare provider can help you decide on the best treatment for you, whether that be counseling, medication, or another form of therapy. Remember that depression affects everyone differently, so finding the most effective treatment for you may take time.
Where can I get help?
If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7. Dial 988 or send a text to 988 to chat with a trained crisis worker.
If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911 right away.