Greetings! Happy Mental Health Month! This month I want to share some thoughts with you
on Depression. What is Depression? Depression refers to feelings of sadness, isolation, discouragement, or hopelessness that persist. It is a serious illness which affects a person physically, emotionally, spiritually, socially and vocationally. What are the Symptoms of Depression? The following are the common symptoms of depression. If you experience four or more of these symptoms for longer than two weeks, or if your symptoms interfere with your daily life, you may be experiencing depression. If you have any concerns about depression, please visit with your Parish Nurse or
your Doctor.
* Ongoing feeling of sadness, anxiety or emptiness
* Loss of interest in usual activities
* Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness or pessimism
* Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
* Difficulty sleeping or eating
* Decreased energy, persistent fatigue
* Difficulty concentrating, remembering and making decisions
* Thoughts of death or suicide
How can Depression be Treated? Depression can be effectively treated in several different ways. The vast majority of people with depression recover and lead meaningful and productive lives. Both medications and counseling or psychotherapy are used in the treatment of depression. It is also very important for family and friends to recognize the symptoms of depression, and encourage treatment for persons suffering from depression. Remember the Bible encourages us with these words, ....Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4: 6, 7). In spite of the difficult times in which we live, God's peace can help us to be whole emotionally.
on Depression. What is Depression? Depression refers to feelings of sadness, isolation, discouragement, or hopelessness that persist. It is a serious illness which affects a person physically, emotionally, spiritually, socially and vocationally. What are the Symptoms of Depression? The following are the common symptoms of depression. If you experience four or more of these symptoms for longer than two weeks, or if your symptoms interfere with your daily life, you may be experiencing depression. If you have any concerns about depression, please visit with your Parish Nurse or
your Doctor.
* Ongoing feeling of sadness, anxiety or emptiness
* Loss of interest in usual activities
* Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness or pessimism
* Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
* Difficulty sleeping or eating
* Decreased energy, persistent fatigue
* Difficulty concentrating, remembering and making decisions
* Thoughts of death or suicide
How can Depression be Treated? Depression can be effectively treated in several different ways. The vast majority of people with depression recover and lead meaningful and productive lives. Both medications and counseling or psychotherapy are used in the treatment of depression. It is also very important for family and friends to recognize the symptoms of depression, and encourage treatment for persons suffering from depression. Remember the Bible encourages us with these words, ....Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4: 6, 7). In spite of the difficult times in which we live, God's peace can help us to be whole emotionally.
