The Signs Of Depression and When To Seek Help!
This is a picture that has been on my camera roll for years and it is probably one of the most emotion inducing photos that I have ever taken. (I have covered my daughters face for her privacy 🖤).
To me it tells a story…..it is a literal snapshot of what depression looks like if you were to paint a picture. It is a soul that feels defeated, hopeless, tired, alone, scared, numb and disconnected from the world and those she loves.
This beautiful soul is my daughter 4 years ago. This was a common sight in our house. On the days she would actually get to school were the days she would collapse on the couch and slip into the deepest sleep I have ever seen someone take. Nothing could move her, nothing would wake her. It was as if her body and expelled every single ounce of energy and there was not one more step to take left in her body.
Depression is a very exhausting and emotionally taxing existence to endure. It robs a human being of enjoying all that life has to offer as well as robs them of the hope of a promising and fulfilling future.
In order to get ahead of this ESCALATING into a crippling situation….we need to learn and become more familiar with the signs to look out for.
Emotional Changes:
Feelings of sadness
Frustration/Anger
Irritable Mood
Loss of interest in usual activities
Conflict/Loss of interest with friends and family
Low self esteem
Feelings of worthlessness
Exaggerated self criticism
Extreme sensitivity to rejection
Trouble thinking/ concentrating
Ongoing sense that life and future are grim/bleak
Frequent thoughts of death, dying and suicide
Behavioral Changes:
Tiredness/Loss of energy
Insomnia or sleeping too much
Changes in appetite (increase or decrease)
Use of alcohol or drugs
Frequent headaches/stomaches
Frequent visits to school nurse
Social isolation
Poor school performance/frequent absences
Less attention to hygiene
Self harm (cutting)
If you or child is experiencing some or many of these symptoms and it is interfering with daily life….contact a health care professional immediately.
When To Get Emergency Help!
Suicide is associated with depression. If you think you may hurt yourself or have thoughts of suicide CALL 911 or your local Emergency number immediately.
Suicide Hotline In The U.S. Call National Suicide Prevention Lifeline @ 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)