Dealing with Depression

Stress can lead to depression or other psychological problems that require professional treatment. If you have more than one of the following symptoms for two weeks or longer, consider seeking professional assistance from someone such as a hospital social worker, counselor, psychiatrist, psychologist or clergy. Depression is highly treatable with medication.

Symptoms of Depression:

• Difficulty sleeping.
• Neglecting your own health needs.
• Depressed mood every day for most of the day.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Persistent lack of energy.
• Constant worrying.
• Ongoing lack of interest in anything.
• Changes in appetite.
• Excessive irritability.
• Noticeable weight loss or gain.
• Continual feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
• Persistent feelings of helplessness.
• Changes in alcohol use or drug habits.

If these symptoms persist, or if they affect your social relationships or your ability to work, contact a professional counselor. Counselors or social workers can be located through professional organizations, such as the National Association of Social Workers at http://www.naswdc.org or the American Counseling Association at www.counseling.org or 1-800-347-6647. If you have suicidal thoughts, contact a suicide hotline immediately. You can call 411 for a local number, call 911 for help or check the front of your phone book for suicide-prevention or hotline numbers.