Depression is an illness that can affect anyone regardless of race, age, gender, culture and social class.

Depression is a medical illness, not a sign of weakness and it is treatable.

Depression can cause you to feel sad, miserable, unhappy, agitated, and angry.  It may also change the way you see yourself and others around you.  It is common to see things in a negative way and is hard for you to imagine that a problem or situation can be solved in a positive way. Depression drains your energy, hope, and drive, making it difficult to do what you need to feel better.

Depression may be brought on by alcohol or drug abuse, certain medical conditions such as cancer or long-term pain, certain medications such as steroids, sleeping problems, stressful life events such as death, illness, divorce, abuse, neglect, or loneliness.

The depressive illness can range from interfering with our usual activities and relationships (mild to moderate depression) to making it hard to relate or communicate with others or to do day-to-day tasks ( debilitating or severe depression).

Depression, even in the most severe cases, can be treated with medications, talk therapy, or both.  Appropriate treatment for depression starts with a physical examination, certain medications, as well as referral for counseling or therapy.  You will usually need to take antidepressant medications for at least 6 months to a year for full benefit.  In repeated or severe episodes of depression, you may need to be on medication for the rest of your life.

Some self-help strategies include; finding a supportive relationship, Avoid negative thinking, keep a journal of your thoughts and feelings, take care of yourself by getting adequate rest, exercise daily, eat a healthy diet and know when you need to get additional help.

Crystal Payton,  FNP-BC, is a member of the Cassopolis Family Clinic staff.