Coping

Coping…..

By Julie Eager LIMHP

It is a bad day, or a series of bad days.  You drag yourself out of bed and looming on the horizon is nothing different, and a feeling that nothing will ever be different.  You are numb and uninterested in things that you used to get pretty excited about….you just can’t get up the energy to do anything.

Depression can sneak up on you or arrive suddenly.   You can experience a depression that is due to circumstances….a friend died, you lost your job or any number of bad things  have happened.  This type of depression typically doesn’t last over six months and counseling could be of great benefit.

You can also have types of depression that come and go throughout your life.  Depression can move into more complicated symptoms of suicidal thoughts, plans and actions.  Your depression could be complicated by mood swings.

Treatment is dependent on the type and severity of the depression you are experiencing.  You need to speak to someone who is a trained mental health or behavioral health specialist to help you to determine your options.

Contact your family doctor who can refer you to a specialist near you.   If you are having suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately by calling your doctor, the hospital or 911.  The national suicide hotline is: 1.800.suicide .

Suicide is the 10^th leading cause of death worldwide.  Working with a specialist will assist in forming a safety plan for those passing moments of suicidal intent.