Depression is not the same as sadness or feeling down. Most times when we are feeling “depressed”, there is a reasonable explanation – something has gone wrong in our life, such as we lost our job, we broke up with our girlfriend, or we have recently lost a loved one. These are unavoidable facts of life, and they hurt. The way we feel at these times is a normal reaction to what has happened, and although these painful emotions are similar to depression, depression is bigger than just a depressed mood. A mood will go away with time, especially if there is a change in our circumstances. Depression can last for years and interfere with success at home, work and in everyday life.
Although this is not an exhaustive list, if a number of the following feelings persist or get worse, you might be depressed:
While you may feel right now as if things are hopeless and nothing will help, just talking to your family doctor or EAP counselor about your feelings is a giant first step towards recovery.
There are things you can do that will help you feel better, such as
A counsellor can help you work on which of these is likely best for you. There is no reason for anyone with depression to continue to suffer.
Read more on self-help for depression from Changeways Clinic
Contact EAP to speak with a counsellor. – FSEAP counsellors are trained in the Changeways “Depression Mapping” approach to depression.
