“More than “Blue”
by Janet K. Mayer, LCSW, BCD
Feeling sad or “blue from time to time is a normal and healthy experience as a reaction to difficult and painful circumstances, an important part of human emotions. When sadness increases in intensity and duration it can become despair, and we begin to think of it as an illness. Depression is the “leading cause of disability among men and women of all ages in the U.S. and worldwide,” according to the World Health Organization’s World Health Report, 2001.
The National Institute of Mental Health notes that someone who is depressed may be experiencing some or all of the following symptoms:
• Ongoing sad, anxious or empty feelings
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Feeling irritable or restless
• Loss of interest in activities or hobbies that were once enjoyable, including sex
• Feeling tired all the time
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or difficulty making decisions
• Not able to go to sleep or stay asleep (insomnia); may wake in the middle of the night or sleep all the time
• Overeating or loss of appetite
• Thoughts of suicide or making suicide attempts
• Ongoing aches and pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not go away.
It’s time to consult with a professional when the degree of despair begins to interfere with
• relationships
• ability to function at work or at home
• ability to enjoy things that have in the past provided pleasure
and/or
• if there is a feeling that life is no longer worth living.
We know a great deal more now than ever before about Depression as a treatable illness. Even though people experiencing clinical depression think they will never feel any better, we know that with appropriate care the vast majority will.
People suffering from Depression are in good company. Famous people who have suffered from Depression include a long list of well-known celebrities from all walks of life. These include:
• Abraham Lincoln (US President)
• Barbara Bush (Former First Lady)
• Billy Joel (Musician)
• Emma Thompson (Actress)
• J.K. Rowlings (Author of the Harry Potter series)
• Terry Bradshaw (Athlete)
• Sheryl Crow (Musician)
• Winston Churchill (British Prime Minister)
• Larry King (Talk-show Host)
• Marie Osmond (Entertainer)
If you or someone you know fits the profile of someone suffering from Depression, a first step towards recovery would be to consult with a family doctor or a trained mental health professional.
West Bergen Mental Healthcare, a full-service community mental health organization serving this community for 45 years is available to help. Our Access Department is available to arrange to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced, well-trained mental health professionals to discuss your concerns. We can be reached at 201-444-3550.
Reach out for help; reach out for health.