Image courtesy of 401 (k) 2012 on Flickr: http://401kcalculator.org By Bonnie Jean Teitleman Sandy...
If you (or anyone you know) have felt sad or blue for more than two weeks, clinical depression may be the cause. Depression is a mood disorder that affects about 20% of the population at some time in their lives. It is not a character weakness or flaw, but an illness that can be successfully treated, usually with a combination of psychotherapy and medicine.
Sometimes people are not consciously aware of being depressed. They may feel physically sick, slowed down and achy and/or not interested in food or sex. They may also withdraw socially and emotionally.
Common symptoms of depression include:
- Anxiety and nervousness
- Arguments with family
- Change in appetite
- Change in sleeping pattern
- Feeling physically slowed down or achy
- Feeling sad, blue, or tearful
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Irritability, moodiness, and social isolation
- Less interest in sex
- Loss of the ability to feel pleasure
- Loss of energy
- Neglect of previously enjoyable activities
- Pessimistic, negative, and repetitive thinking
- Poor concentration, loss of motivation
- Presence of guilt
- Thoughts of suicide
If you have concerns about these or any other issues, please contact us at 617-353-5381 to arrange an appointment.